Ensuring stable grain output while combating land degradation is an urgent and essential aspect to achieve sustainable agriculture. 

According to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, up to 40% of the planet's land is degraded and that directly affects half of humanity.

In China, the black soil region in the northeast – often called the country's "grain granary" – produces one-quarter of China's total annual grain output. However, decades of intensive farming have led to serious soil erosion, organic matter decline and structural damage, threatening long-term agricultural productivity.

To tackle this dual challenge of land degradation and maintain stable food output, the Lishu Model has been developed and widely promoted in the region. 

By leaving crop residues on the farmland surface and minimizing soil disturbance, the model restores soil health, enhances water retention, prevents erosion and rebuilds organic matter.

The results have been remarkable. 

Black soil that was previously thinning and losing fertility has shown significant recovery. Grain yields have stabilized and even increased due to improved soil structure and nutrient availability.  The Lishu Model thus offers an effective, low-cost solution that addresses both land degradation and the need for high and stable grain output.

The model demonstrates that conservation agriculture – when adapted to local conditions – can restore degraded land while maintaining or even increasing crop yields. By protecting black soil and other fertile farmlands, nations can secure their agricultural future without compromising the environment and the land, thus paving the way to transform into an agricultural powerhouse.