On the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2025, held under the theme “Regenerate land. Open new possibilities”, China is demonstrating how innovation can turn barren sands into green opportunities.
It all started decades ago with the grass checkerboard technique. By laying straw grids in shifting dunes, this low-tech solution traps windblown sand, stabilizes the soil and creates pockets for vegetation to take root. Today, you’ll find these checkerboard patterns in projects across Asia, Africa and beyond, proving the method’s global impact.
But restoration here isn’t just about greenery. The Chinese mainland is also tapping the economic potential of once-unforgiving lands through sea buckthorn cultivation. This resilient shrub thrives in arid zones, producing bright berries packed with nutrients. The budding juice industry around sea buckthorn has generated new jobs, pumped fresh life into rural communities and created a sustainable revenue stream tied to ecological health.
China’s dual-focus approach—combining ecological restoration with economic development—offers a blueprint for land regeneration worldwide. By weaving together traditional wisdom and market-driven incentives, it shows that combating desertification can also open doors to fresh possibilities for local economies and global sustainability.
As the world marks this year’s Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, China’s example reminds us that innovation rooted in both environmental and social goals can reshape landscapes and livelihoods alike. It’s a story of transformation—from drifting sands to thriving ecosystems—that invites us to rethink what’s possible when we regenerate land.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
