China is making significant strides in its fight against desertification, with officials reporting major progress since 2023. Guan Zhi’ou, minister of Natural Resources, announced that the nation has reclaimed over 5 million hectares of desertified land, thanks to collaborative efforts across regions and sectors.
“With the leadership of the State Council and the collaboration of multiple regions, departments, and enterprises—both public and private—we have controlled over 76 million mu of land from desertification,” Guan said during an interview after the closing meeting of the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress.
Innovative measures like photovoltaic power plant projects and new road constructions are not only greening the land but also boosting the local economy. In north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the government invested 1.5 billion yuan ($207 million) in forestation efforts, providing jobs and income for over 200,000 residents.
These efforts are part of the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program, the world’s largest afforestation initiative aimed at tackling desertification in northwest, north, and northeast China. This massive project not only combats environmental challenges but also brings social and economic benefits to the communities involved.
Guan also emphasized China’s commitment to safeguarding food security by maintaining the country’s farmland above the critical line of 1.8 billion mu (about 120 million hectares). This ensures that the nation can continue to feed its population while pursuing sustainable development.
