China has taken a significant step towards environmental restoration by establishing a special fund to support the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program (TSFP), according to a circular made public on Monday. The TSFP is a large-scale afforestation project aimed at combating desertification and restoring ecological balance across the northern regions of the country.
The Ministry of Finance (MOF) announced that a total of 12 billion yuan (approximately $1.7 billion) has been allocated from this year’s central budget to finance the program. Subsequent funds will be provided based on future requirements, underscoring the government’s commitment to long-term ecological sustainability.
The Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program, often referred to as the “Great Green Wall,” spans the northwest, north, and northeast regions of China. Initiated in 1978, it is one of the world’s largest ecological engineering projects, aiming to curb the expansion of deserts, reduce soil erosion, and improve agricultural conditions.
This renewed financial support is expected to accelerate afforestation efforts, enhance carbon sequestration, and bolster the resilience of ecosystems in the face of climate change. The fund will facilitate the planting of new forests, the rehabilitation of degraded lands, and the implementation of sustainable land management practices.
The move aligns with China’s broader environmental goals, including its pledge to peak carbon emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. By strengthening programs like the TSFP, China is not only addressing domestic environmental challenges but also contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
The initiative holds significant implications for local communities, economies, and the environment. It is expected to create job opportunities, improve air quality, and promote biodiversity. Researchers and environmentalists worldwide are watching closely, as the program’s success could offer valuable lessons for other nations facing similar ecological issues.
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China sets up fund to support Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program
cgtn.com
