China is set to make waves at the 16th Conference of Parties (COP16) of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The delegation will highlight the country's impressive land restoration efforts, demonstrating a commitment to battling desertification on a massive scale.
Land Restoration Achievements
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning proudly announced that 53% of treatable sandy land in China has been put under effective treatment. This milestone is a testament to China's dedication to ecological conservation and sustainable development.
The Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program (TSFP)
At the heart of China's desert-fighting strategy is the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program (TSFP), launched in 1978 and set to continue until 2050. This ambitious project has expanded afforestation areas by a staggering 32 million hectares. By 2050, TSFP aims to cover over 4 million square kilometers across 13 provinces, accounting for 42.4% of China's total land area.
"China is one of the countries most affected by desertification," Mao emphasized, highlighting the significance of these efforts. The country is home to the world's second-largest drifting desert, Taklimakan, spanning 337,600 square kilometers with a circumference of 3,046 kilometers. Known as the \"Sea of Death,\" Taklimakan has been surrounded by a 3,046-kilometer green belt in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, effectively combating sand movement.
This year also marks the 30th anniversary of China signing the UNCCD, underscoring three decades of commitment to fighting desertification. The upcoming COP16 in Riyadh, themed \"Our Land\", will provide a global platform for China to share its successful strategies and inspire international collaboration.
As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, China's proactive measures serve as a beacon of hope and a model for sustainable land management. 🌱✨
