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2025.06.17 22:57 GMT+8

Where deserts once stood: China's transformed lands

Updated 2025.06.17 22:57 GMT+8
CGTN

On the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025 – held under the theme "Regenerate land. Open new possibilities" – China is showcasing remarkable achievements in reversing desertification. Decades ago, Chinese innovators pioneered the "grass checkerboard" technique, laying straw grids to stabilize sand and reduce wind erosion – a method now adopted globally. Beyond restoration, China is turning deserts into economic engines by promoting sea buckthorn cultivation. The fruit, thriving in arid zones, fuels a booming juice industry that generates jobs while restoring ecosystems. These efforts highlight China's dual success in ecological restoration and sustainable development, setting a model for global land regeneration.

Scenery of Saihanba Forest Farm in north China's Hebei Province. It is a part of the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program. /CFP

Forest belonging to the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program in Zhangye City in northwest China's Gansu Province. /CFP

Scenery of Saihanba Forest Farm in north China's Hebei Province. /CFP

Scenery of Saihanba Forest Farm in north China's Hebei Province. /CFP

The Linian Forest Farm in Donghai County is known as the "Saihanba of Northern Jiangsu," in Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province, August 15, 2024. /CFP

Xanthoceras sorbifolium flowers are in full bloom at the Hongshawo Desertification Comprehensive Prevention and Control Test Station of Shuihanyuan in Zhangye City, Gansu Province, May 11, 2025. /CFP

Xanthoceras sorbifolium flowers are in full bloom at the Hongshawo Desertification Comprehensive Prevention and Control Test Station of Shuihanyuan in Zhangye City, Gansu Province, May 11, 2025. /CFP

Xanthoceras sorbifolium flowers are in full bloom at the Hongshawo Desertification Comprehensive Prevention and Control Test Station of Shuihanyuan in Zhangye City, Gansu Province, May 11, 2025. /CFP

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