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11:38, 15-Sep-2017
The Big Picture: Growing money on trees
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President Xi Jinping’s vision of environmental protection is closely linked to his experience of working in Fujian Province.
During his political tenure in Fujian, Xi offered strong support to measures countering soil and water erosion in Changting county of Longyan.
CGTN correspondents visited the county to talk with farmer Lai Musheng, who reminisced about his memories of China's top leader.
Xi Jinping, then deputy secretary of Fujian Provincial Committee of the CPC, met Lai Musheng in 1999. /Photo provided by Lai Musheng
Xi Jinping, then deputy secretary of Fujian Provincial Committee of the CPC, met Lai Musheng in 1999. /Photo provided by Lai Musheng
Growing money on trees
Located in a red soil region, Changting has suffered severe soil erosion. In 1985, 30 percent of the total land area was affected by water loss and soil erosion. Since 2000, the county has endeavored to make the mountain green.
Farmer Lai Musheng runs an orchard business in Changting. /CGTN Photo
Farmer Lai Musheng runs an orchard business in Changting. /CGTN Photo
Lai Musheng started his business of planting trees in 1994. Xi Jinping inspected Changting in 1999, and Lai Musheng reported to Xi that even grass couldn’t grow. By planting trees he could help curb soil erosion, and make good money.
“He was very interested in what I said and encouraged me to expand planting. He hoped I could lead many farmers to get rich," said Lai Musheng.
"I was so excited and even became ambitious. I then contracted 600 mu, plus the original 700 mu, I have altogether 1,300 mu, with a good income.”
Lai Musheng said he wanted to thank Xi for offering the encouragement that changed his life.
Changting’s soil erosion in the 1980s /CGTN Photo
Changting’s soil erosion in the 1980s /CGTN Photo
Green development
China’s fast growth has had an environmental cost, a development that has led to frustration. The government has responded by elevating "Green Development" to an issue of the highest national importance.
President Xi Jinping once said: “Clear waters and green mountains are mountains of gold and silver.” Changting is a testing ground to put the theory into practice, by preserving the environment and developing eco-friendly industries.
But the people of Changting have toiled for decades to turn the barren mountains into a land of flowers and fruits. Xi’s reference to “gold and green mountains” is a vivid expression that allows people to understand the balancing of development and nature.
It’s not simply about planting trees to protect the soil. It’s a much wider concept, one that is transforming China.
Pictures of Lai Musheng’s orchard /CGTN Photo
Pictures of Lai Musheng’s orchard /CGTN Photo
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