China reclaims 4.3 million hectares from desertification since 2012

Since 2012, China has reclaimed approximately 4.3 million hectares of land from desertification, marking a significant achievement in environmental restoration. This is reported by Xinhua News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS.

The report, presented to the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, reveals that 53 per cent of treatable desertified land has been effectively rehabilitated over the past 12 years.

Through large-scale initiatives such as the "Three North Shelterbelt" project, targeting the northwest, north, and northeast regions, China has employed innovative technology and scientific advancements to tackle this challenge. A total of 12 billion yuan (about US$1.7 billion) has been earmarked from this year's central budget for the project, and subsequent funds will be allocated in accordance with needs in the following years, said a statement on the website of the Ministry of Finance (MOF).

These efforts also contribute to the local economy by fostering industries that harness unique regional resources.

As desertified areas gradually transform, local communities experience both environmental improvements and economic growth, showing China’s commitment to sustainable development and ecological health.

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