Recently, the Chinese mainland released recommendations for its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), ushering in a new stage of ecological civilization and high-quality development.
Dong Shikui, dean and professor at the School of Grasslands at Beijing Forestry University and adjunct professor at Cornell University, explains that grassland protection will be reframed under the principle of "holistic conservation and systematic restoration of mountains, waters, forests, farmlands, grasslands and deserts". Breaking free from grass-only management, authorities will integrate grassland planning into a broader territorial spatial framework.
In practice, this means aligning restoration projects with watershed management, forest corridors and sustainable agriculture, supported by advanced monitoring technologies and community-driven stewardship. Pilot zones will test innovative grazing schemes and native species reintroduction, building resilient, biodiversity-rich ecosystems.
By weaving grasslands into a unified ecological network, planners aim to bolster both environmental health and local livelihoods, reinforcing the Chinese mainland’s role as a global contributor to sustainable development. As this blueprint takes shape, its lessons could inspire similar efforts worldwide.
Reference(s):
Grassland protection and restoration in the 15th Five-Year Plan
cgtn.com
