A Peek into the Desert: Youngsters fight desertification

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In northern China’s Kubuqi Desert in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, many recent graduates have chosen to work for a local company that’s been greening the desert for decades.

Twenty-five-year-old Yang Yang analyzes soil components in the lab of the Elion Kubuqi Desert Research Institute.

25-year-old Yang Yang learns from a veteran expert in the Kubuqi Desert Research Institute. /CGTN Photo

She believes other young researchers like her can bring even more potential, “Veteran experts here have a lot of practical experience while we have modern theoretical knowledge. It’s great when we learn from each other and combine our skills.”

Elion is a privately-owned resource group established in 1988 in the Kubuqi Desert. In 30 years, its efforts have proven successful in combating desertification.

The only hotel built by Elion in the Kubuqi Desert enjoys a luxurious style. /CGTN Photo

Today, 40 percent of its employees are below the age of 28. Many of them say they were lured here by the company’s remarkable achievements over the past three decades.

Twenty-six-year-old Wu Yichang, who works on soil improvement is one young employee singing Elion’s praises, “From the satellite pictures, I saw one-third of the desert was turned green by our company. I feel proud that I can work here.”

Wu Yichang (R) works with another young researcher in the lab in Kubuqi. /CGTN Photo

So what exactly does Elion do that appeals to young people so much?

Thirty years ago, the Kubuqi Desert was literally a dead sea of sand without plants or roads. Local residents could hardly make a living. But later, with government support, Elion transformed the desert into an oasis.

The past and present Kubuqi Desert, from a dead sea of sand to an oasis. /CGTN Photo

At first, Elion planted lots of trees using advanced technology. Then they started developing various ecological industries in the desert, including herbs, fruit and vegetable planting, poultry and livestock breeding, and even solar power station installation.

Elion’s efforts have formed a sustainable business model that has completely revitalized the Kubuqi area, bringing locals work and prospects of a new life.

The Elion group combines solar power industry with poultry raising industry. /CGTN Photo

And their research continues to offer help for many other desert areas, both at home and abroad. Last year, its founder Wang Wenbiao was awarded the Lifetime Achievement honor in green industries by the United Nations.

Sand dunes can still be seen in the distance of a green land in Kubuqi but were all in good control. /CGTN Photo

And this desert oasis has become a place for many young people to fulfill their dreams.

Yang Yang said, “I want to find out whether I can make a change here.” “I hope to create more green land for future generations,” vowed Wu Yichang.

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