Yutian County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region — The vast sands of the Taklimakan Desert are getting a green makeover. On November 28, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved as the final rose seedling was planted, completing a green belt along the southern edge of the desert.
But the work doesn’t stop there. Efforts to combat desertification continue with renewed vigor. Bulldozers rumble across the shifting dunes, leveling mounds and filling pits over an expansive 530 hectares of sandy land in Yutian County.
Planting Hope in the Sands
Local plants like saxaul and salt cedar are the heroes in this environmental effort. These resilient species are key to stabilizing the sand and preventing further desert spread. In Lop County, workers carefully store bundles of red willow branches in underground cellars, shielding them with soil to protect them through the harsh winter.
Come spring, these willows will be transplanted to cover more than 400 hectares of desert terrain. In a silverberry garden in Yutian, teams collect saxaul seeds from sandy areas, preparing for the next planting season.
Marrying Green Energy with Conservation
Beyond planting, the region is embracing renewable energy as part of its strategy. Photovoltaic projects are springing up across the Taklimakan Desert. Workers are busy installing rows of solar panels, turning sunlight into clean energy.
Underneath these panels, sand-stabilizing plants like medick and Chinese fountain grass will take root. This innovative approach combines solar power generation with biological sand control, addressing environmental and energy needs simultaneously.
A Model for Sustainable Development
This integrated project is set to become a new model for Xinjiang. It showcases how ecological restoration and economic development can work hand in hand, offering a blueprint for other regions facing similar challenges.
The transformation of the Taklimakan Desert is more than just an environmental effort; it’s a beacon of sustainable progress. As the green belt grows and solar panels shine under the desert sun, Xinjiang moves toward a brighter, greener future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
