As spring breathes new life into northwest China's Gansu Province, a significant environmental effort is underway to stabilize desert dunes and promote afforestation in the Hexi Corridor. This narrow stretch of land, nestled between the Gobi and Qilian Mountains, frequently battles against floating sand and dust, threatening local ecosystems and communities.
On Wednesday, a dedicated team of 6,817 officials and employees from 118 units in Wuwei City joined forces in a desert control activity at the heart of the Tengger Desert, located at the eastern end of the Hexi Corridor. Utilizing agricultural waste such as wheat and rice straws, the team constructed \"checkerboards\"—nets that span the desert to control sand flow, effectively curbing the spread of desertification.
Lan Yinyin, a passionate volunteer, emphasized the collective effort, stating, \"In the construction of ecological civilization, each individual plays a role as a participant and contributor. I firmly believe that through our collective efforts, our homestead will become more livable and beautiful.\"
According to the local government, Gansu Province has ambitious plans for the year ahead. The province aims to plant over 2.6 million mu (approximately 173,000 hectares) of forest and treat more than 2.85 million mu (190,000 hectares) of desertified land. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to enhance ecological sustainability, improve air quality, and support local agriculture and livelihoods.
The afforestation project not only addresses environmental challenges but also fosters community engagement and resilience. By transforming desert landscapes into thriving green spaces, Gansu is setting a notable example of how coordinated efforts and innovative solutions can lead to significant positive change.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
