Skip to content

China's Great Green Wall: A 90M Hectare Desert Combat Success

The Great Green Wall has transformed deserts into lush landscapes, but not without pushback from local herders and cultural concerns.

In this image I can see few green color trees, wooden fencing, wall and the green grass.
In this image I can see few green color trees, wooden fencing, wall and the green grass.

China's Great Green Wall: A 90M Hectare Desert Combat Success

China's 'Great Green Wall' campaign has made significant strides in combating desertification, with over 90 million hectares 'greened'. The project, which began to contain desert expansion caused by intensive farming, grazing, mining, and climate change, has created jobs and alleviated poverty. However, it also faces challenges, including protests and cultural concerns.

The campaign, launched in 2003, aims to plant another 70 million hectares, an area the size of France, by 2050. Around the Kubuqi desert, planting trees and sowing drought-resistant creepers has revitalized ecosystems and provided employment. The project also involves installing solar arrays, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

However, the ban on free grazing has sparked regular protests by herders, leading to arrests. Some ethnic Mongolians feel the campaign has disrupted traditional farming practices and culture. Experts advise against using non-native, water-intensive plants to prevent further degradation.

The 'Great Green Wall' campaign, led by Elion Resources Group in the Kubuqi region, has successfully restored ecosystems and combated desertification. With plans to expand by another 70 million hectares, the project continues to face challenges, including protests and cultural concerns. Striking a balance between environmental restoration and cultural preservation will be key to its long-term success.

Read also:

Latest