In Ordos, situated in North China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the ninth Kubuqi International Desert Forum (KIDF) was recently inaugurated. The primary objective of this esteemed forum is to shed light on the development of ecological civilizations and innovations in sand control and land rehabilitation. The KIDF has consistently been a pivotal platform, presenting China’s exemplary achievements and experiences in curbing desertification to the global arena.
A Collaborative Endeavor against Desertification
Marking a significant step toward the colossal goal of combating desertification, the China-Arab International Research Center for Drought, Desertification, and Land Degradation was inaugurated during the forum’s opening. The advent of this center signifies an earnest effort, where representatives from varied corners gathered to sign a memorandum of understanding. The initial collaborative initiatives are nothing short of ambitious—greening endeavors for up-and-coming Saudi cities, sharing expertise with Gulf Cooperation Council nations, and the launching of a grand-scale project centered around planting 10 billion trees and shrubs. Furthermore, innovative projects like eco-solar desert control engineering were also introduced.
Forum Highlights and Global Participation
This two-day conclave, under the banner “Technology-empowered Desert Control for the Benefit of Mankind,” witnessed participation in droves. Over 300 stalwarts graced the occasion—distinguished international political personalities, delegates from the United Nations, high-ranking officials from relevant departments, and a melange of scholars, experts, and business magnates.
A collective understanding echoed throughout the venue. Given the fluctuating global dynamics and the escalating threats of land desertification, the KIDF serves as an indispensable bridge for nations worldwide. It facilitates the sharing of experiences and strategies to counter desertification. The Chinese approach, grounded in scientific methodologies to thwart the expansion of deserts, has significantly bolstered global endeavors against environmental challenges.
The magnanimity of China’s efforts didn’t go unnoticed. Former Polish President Bronisław Komorowski, during his interaction with the Global Times, lauded the substantial growth of the green expanse in the Kubuqi Desert. He also emphasized that China’s dedication towards tackling desertification aligns seamlessly with the global impetus on environmental conservation.
Kubuqi Desert: The Turnaround Story
Nestled to the north of the Ordos Plateau and at a distance of roughly 800 kilometers from Beijing, the Kubuqi Desert spans as China’s seventh-largest desert. This expansive stretch of sand, historically termed “the sea of death,” has undergone a profound transformation. An astounding 6,000 square kilometers of what was once barren sand now flourishes with green vegetation. Biodiversity has proliferated exponentially, with the number of species skyrocketing from a meager 100 to an impressive 530. This renaissance has not only invigorated the environment but has also augmented the living standards of the local populace.
Key Players in the KIDF and Endorsements
The KIDF’s establishment and successful perpetuation owe immensely to China’s Ministry of Science and Technology, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, and the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Regional People’s Government. Their concerted efforts have transformed KIDF into the singular large-scale international forum zealously championing global desertification control and green economic expansion.
This year, the United Nations Environment Programme and the Secretariat of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification proudly co-organized the event.
The landscapes of the Ordos region left an indelible mark on Amina Mohamed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. She was captivated by the phenomenal ecological and socioeconomic restoration. For her, the transformation stood as an emblem of hope for regions grappling with land degradation globally.
China’s Green Initiatives
Over the past decade, China’s unwavering commitment to ecological balance has been palpable. Through astute policymaking, industrialization, and marketization, a slew of comprehensive sand control projects have been executed. Collaborative engagements between governments, businesses, and societal factions have resulted in the successful prevention of sand control over a staggering 282 million mu (equivalent to 18.8 million hectares). This herculean effort has culminated in a reduction of sandy land by over 64.9 million mu, thereby contributing to a whopping 25% of the world’s green augmentation.
As the forum progressed, scholars and pundits remarked on the upcoming 10th anniversary of China’s visionary proposal – the inception of a global community bonded by a shared destiny and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China’s unflinching advocacy for international dialogue and fostering synergies between the BRI and the 2030 Agenda’s execution was highly commended.
In essence, the KIDF epitomizes the philosophy of “Harmonious Coexistence of Human and Nature.” Through an intensive exchange of avant-garde ideas and technologies centered around global desertification control, the forum propels international collaboration in desert ecological technology and the new energy sector. Its noble mission is straightforward yet profound—empower the world to counter desertification challenges more effectively and fulfill the United Nations 2030 sustainable development aspirations.
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