When Guo Chengwang began planting trees in the Mu Us Desert of northwest China's Shaanxi Province nearly 40 years ago, he was driven by a dream 🌳. Little did he know that his solitary effort would spark a green revolution against desertification 🌾.
In 1985, Guo planted 1,200 saplings in the harsh desert sands. Only one poplar survived 🌱, but that lone tree was a beacon of hope. \"I was thrilled to see that poplars could grow in the desert,\" he once said.
Back in the 1980s, the Mu Us Desert—one of China's four major sand expanses—was nothing but endless dunes 🌵. \"The desolated land was covered with sand dunes,\" Guo recalled. \"Nothing else.\"
His grandson, Guo Jianjun, remembers the barren landscape vividly. \"Not even any grass in sight,\" he said. \"The sandstorms were so strong that you could barely open your eyes.\" 😣
Today, Guo Jianjun continues his grandfather's legacy ❤️, transforming over 3,000 hectares of once-uncultivated desert into flourishing green land 🌿. Thanks to the tireless efforts of generations like the Guos, more than 80% of the sand-covered land in the Mu Us Desert has been reclaimed 🌍, with a forestation rate reaching 30%, according to Xinhua.
Embracing Nature's Wisdom 🌍
\"All things that grow live in harmony and benefit from the nourishment of Nature,\" says an ancient Chinese proverb from \"Xunzi,\" a Confucian classic 📜.
Quoting this wisdom at the Leaders Summit on Climate in April 2021, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of respecting the laws of nature and promoting harmony between man and nature 🤝.
\"Mother Nature has nourished us, and we must treat nature as our root, respect it, protect it, and follow its laws,\" President Xi urged 🌏.
China's green efforts don't stop with the Mu Us Desert. In Saihanba, north China's Hebei Province, the world's largest man-made forest stands tall 🌲. In the Kubuqi Desert of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, innovative sand control methods have turned vast deserts into green expanses 🌾, showcasing a Chinese model of environmental restoration.
A Green Future Beckons 🌅
The journey from desolation to rejuvenation is a testament to China's commitment to environmental sustainability 🌳. By following nature's laws and drawing from ancient wisdom, China is not just healing its lands but also inspiring the world to find harmony with nature 🌿.
As young stewards of the planet, it's our turn to carry the torch 🕯️. Let's embrace nature, innovate, and work together for a greener future 🌎.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
