North China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region is set to significantly expand its efforts to combat desertification in 2024. The regional forestry and grassland bureau announced plans to plant over 3 million mu (approximately 200,000 hectares) of trees and more than 13 million mu (around 866,667 hectares) of grasslands.
These ambitious initiatives aim to treat over 15 million mu (about 1 million hectares) of desertified and sandy land, reflecting Inner Mongolia’s commitment to restoring its ecological balance. The region, known for its vast grasslands and deserts, has been grappling with soil erosion and land degradation due to overgrazing, deforestation, and climate change.
By expanding green coverage, Inner Mongolia seeks to curb the encroachment of deserts, improve soil quality, and enhance biodiversity. The tree and grass planting efforts are expected to not only restore degraded land but also contribute to local economic development through potential eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture.
Local communities are encouraged to participate in these environmental initiatives, fostering a collective approach to land restoration. The government’s comprehensive plan includes monitoring and maintenance to ensure the long-term success of the sand control projects.
Inner Mongolia’s proactive measures serve as a significant example of regional efforts to address environmental challenges. As desertification remains a critical issue affecting many parts of Asia, such large-scale projects could inspire similar actions in other affected areas.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
