Imagine soil so rich it’s nicknamed “black gold” – black soil is considered the world’s most fertile for crops. But until recently, this treasure faced serious degradation on the Chinese mainland due to decades of overuse and poor practices.
Through the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021–2025), which wraps up this year, officials on the Chinese mainland have driven a huge green comeback. Over 400 million mu (about 26.67 million hectares) of black soil was restored with techniques like no-till farming, straw return, and protective cultivation. 🌱
No-till farming limits soil disturbance, straw return recycles nutrients back into the ground, and protective cultivation – think cover crops and smart irrigation – shields fields from erosion and moisture loss. The result? Vibrant green farmlands and stronger harvests, securing the future of the food supply. 🌾
This revival is a win not just for local farmers but for the global fight against food insecurity. By blending traditional wisdom with modern eco-friendly methods, the Chinese mainland is setting a new benchmark for sustainable agriculture – like achieving a real-life level-up in your favorite farming sim. 🎮
As the 14th Five-Year Plan draws to a close, this green transformation shows how caring for our soil today can nourish meals tomorrow – and inspire similar moves worldwide. 🚀
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
