On the eastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau lies Nyanpo Yuzee in Jigzhi County, Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai. Home to a community where 90 percent of the population are Tibetans, generations of families have thrived as herders on these lush grasslands. However, over the past two decades, the community has witnessed a troubling transformation: the once-vibrant pastures have been degrading into vast expanses of black soil.
The degradation poses a significant threat not only to the herders’ traditional way of life but also to the plateau’s rich biodiversity. The decline of the grasslands jeopardizes the delicate ecosystem that countless species depend upon, raising concerns among environmentalists and locals alike.
In response to this crisis, a collaborative effort has emerged to breathe new life into the deteriorating landscape. In 2021, with funding from the Jigzhi County government, the Nyanpo Yuzee Environmental Protection Association initiated a grass-planting project. The association recruited 47 local residents to participate in this ambitious endeavor aimed at restoring the degraded pastures and revitalizing the herders’ hopes for the future.
The project is a testament to the power of community and cooperation. Local government officials, environmental NGOs, community members, and external experts have joined forces to combat the challenges posed by environmental degradation. The initiative seeks not only to rehabilitate the land but also to empower the local population by involving them directly in conservation efforts.
“Restoring the grasslands is essential for preserving our heritage and ensuring the prosperity of future generations,” says a member of the Nyanpo Yuzee Environmental Protection Association. The journey, however, is not without its hurdles. Uncertainties and difficulties have tested the resolve of those involved, but the herders have met these challenges with determination and, at times, cautious hesitation.
The grass-planting initiative represents more than an environmental project; it is a beacon of hope for communities facing the repercussions of ecological decline. By uniting tradition with modern conservation practices, the people of Nyanpo Yuzee are paving the way for a sustainable future on the plateau.
As the grasslands begin to show signs of recovery, there is renewed optimism that the harmonious relationship between the herders and their environment can be restored. The success of this project could serve as a model for other regions grappling with similar issues, highlighting the importance of community-led conservation efforts in preserving the natural world.
Reference(s):
The Reawakening of the Grassland | Restoring pastures on the plateau
cgtn.com
