China's Desertification Control Efforts Yield Significant Results

China has achieved a remarkable milestone in its fight against desertification, with 53% of its treatable desertified land now under effective management. This achievement marks the world's first "zero growth" in land degradation and a "dual reduction" in desertified and sand-covered land.

Huang Caiyi, director of the desertification control department, announced this progress at a recent news conference. He highlighted that China has entered a virtuous cycle of ecological protection and livelihood improvement, becoming the largest contributor to global greening.

The economic, social, and ecological landscapes in desertified areas have undergone significant transformations. This success paves the way for a desertification control path with Chinese characteristics.

the first anniversary of the Three-North Shelterbelt Project's critical phase and the 30th anniversary of China's signing of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.

Huang emphasized the ongoing challenges of desertification, calling it a "common challenge faced by humanity." He reaffirmed China's commitment to long-term and arduous efforts in combating desertification.

The National Forestry and Grassland Administration will continue to prioritize desertification control work, focusing on the Three-North Shelterbelt Project. They will also earnestly fulfill their obligations under the UNCCD and strive to create new milestones in desertification control.

Huang concluded by highlighting the international recognition of China's efforts. The Three-North Shelterbelt Project has received the Global 500 Roll of Honour for Environmental Achievement medal from the United Nations Environment Programme. Additionally, the UNCCD Secretariat has twice awarded China for its "outstanding contribution to combating desertification.