China's Green Great Wall reduces desertification but scientists stress ongoing efforts are essential

On July 13, 2026, China's Green Great Wall has made significant strides in combating desertification in northern China. The initiative, which began in 1978, aims to reverse the spread of desert conditions and restore greenery in affected regions. Despite progress, scientists warn that long-term efforts are crucial to maintain these gains.

Progress of the Green Great Wall Initiative

For over 50 years, millions of workers have employed a technique known as "straw checkerboards" to stabilize sand dunes. This method involves inserting forearm-length sticks into shifting sands to create grids where saplings are planted. According to state media, the area of desertified land peaked in 2000 and has since decreased by over 1,000 square kilometers (400 square miles) annually.

The Chinese government reports that the Green Great Wall initiative has transformed vast areas, enabling a shift from "desertification advancing" to "greenery advancing." As of 2022, forests planted under this program cover approximately 500,000 square kilometers (200,000 square miles).

Challenges and Future Efforts

Despite the achievements, experts like Barron Joseph Orr, chief scientist for the U.N. Convention to Combat Desertification, emphasize that reversing desertification requires ongoing commitment. He stated, "Reversing desertification is possible when it becomes part of long-term development strategies." Increased rainfall in some regions has aided vegetation restoration, but careful management is still necessary.

In a recent media tour, 60-year-old sand-control worker Yin Yuzhen reflected on her experience, stating, "Even the passing of a bird across the sky made me happy." Her work, along with that of over 300 million rural laborers, has contributed significantly to the program's success.

Measuring Success and Sustainability

According to monitoring data from the Institute of Applied Ecology, China's desertified land has shrunk by about 10% since 2000, with severely desertified areas decreasing by over 40%. Forest cover in the program area has increased from 5% in 1978 to 14% in 2022.

Orr notes that restored ecosystems can become self-sustaining but still require diligent management and monitoring. The environmental advocacy group Green Camel Bell is actively working on similar projects in Gansu province, further illustrating the importance of sustained efforts against desertification.