Imagine a place once known as the "sea of death," where not even a bird would fly or a blade of grass dare grow. Located on the southwestern edge of the Taklamakan Desert in the Chinese mainland, Makit County in Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has long been remembered for its harsh, barren landscape.
Everything changed in 2012 when the county embarked on an ambitious campaign to reclaim the desert. Over the past 13 years, community efforts have planted 500,000 mu (about 33,000 hectares) of shelterbelt forests, battling decades of desertification and creating a thriving green barrier that now protects neighboring settlements.
This inspiring transformation is a true underdog story—proof that with determination and unity, even the most unforgiving lands can flourish. It's a refreshing reminder for young eco-enthusiasts and adventurers alike that hope and hard work can turn any challenge into a success story. 🌱
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Makit County's green revolution on the edge of the Taklamakan Desert
cgtn.com
