July 12 is not just another day—it marks the International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms! This year, the theme "Sand and Dust Storms: Working Across Agendas for Resilience and Sustainability" reminds us that environmental challenges are truly global. 🌍
According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), sand and dust storms now affect 151 countries, impacting agriculture, transportation, and more. With the declaration of the UN Decade on Combating Sand and Dust Storms (2025-2034) on July 10, global efforts are ramping up to tackle these issues head on.
China is showcasing impressive innovation in this fight! Since June 2023, over 6.67 million hectares have undergone forestation and land restoration to combat desertification. Projects like the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program have stabilized nearly 948,000 hectares of shifting dunes in eastern regions, rehabilitated 3.18 million hectares around the Great Bend of the Yellow River, and even pushed back the Tengger Desert by 25 kilometers in the west. 🚀
Local initiatives are adding extra zest: in Xilingol, authorities are building more than 600 km of rural roads to block mobile sand dunes, while along the edge of the Taklimakan Desert in Xinjiang, an 800 km long photovoltaic corridor is under construction to harness renewable energy and curb desert expansion.
Technology is at the heart of these measures—unmanned drones for seedling delivery, advanced sand barrier machines, and specialized sand-fixation equipment have significantly boosted efficiency. Experts note that over 100 scientific breakthroughs and mechanized afforestation now account for nearly 50% of desert control operations. 💡
This blend of cutting-edge technology, massive investment, and coordinated action is proving crucial in building a sustainable future. For young, tech-savvy professionals, it’s inspiring to see how innovation and global cooperation can transform environmental challenges into opportunities for progress. Stay tuned for more updates on green initiatives that are shaping our world!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
