China's desertification control: Green code for the blue planet

These before-and-after satellite images showcase China's remarkable achievements in desert control, turning barren sand seas into lush green belts through decades of persistent ecological efforts. 

Located along the Tarim River, Alar City is transforming shifting sand dunes into expanding green zones. Drought-resistant species such as poplar and saxaul are being planted to form protective belts against desert encroachment. Satellite imagery shows the steady growth of these emerging oases, evidence of ongoing desert-control efforts.

On the southern edge of the Taklimakan Desert, Minfeng County is stabilizing moving sands using straw checkerboard systems combined with hardy vegetation. Drought-resistant plants like saxaul and tamarisk help form protective green buffers around local oases, slowing desert expansion and reinforcing ecological stability.

In Qiemo County, also along the southern rim of the Taklimakan Desert, similar methods are being used to contain desert spread. Straw grids and resilient saxaul vegetation act as barriers, gradually pushing back the sands. Satellite observations show vegetation coverage expanding as the oasis grows and desert areas recede.

Along the bend of the Yellow River, the Kubuqi Desert is undergoing large-scale restoration. Four major green belts now act as barriers, helping stabilize the sand and gradually transform vast stretches of desert into vegetation-covered land.

Once heavily affected by sandstorms, Horinger County has reversed degradation through sustained tree planting. Slopes that once had less than 15% vegetation cover are now significantly greener, improving both the local ecosystem and economic conditions.

In the Horqin sandy land, Tongliao City is restoring grassland ecosystems through measures such as rotational grazing and grass planting. These efforts are helping vegetation recover and bringing life back to previously degraded land.

North of Beijing and Tianjin, Xilinhot's grasslands are recovering steadily. Restoration efforts have improved vegetation density and soil quality, with satellite imagery showing a clear transition from sandy terrain to thriving grassland.

Near the Longyangxia Reservoir, ecological restoration is gradually expanding vegetation into desert areas. Satellite comparisons between 2020 and 2025 show increasing green coverage, as barren land slowly transforms into a more sustainable environment.