Planting native tree species to transform wasteland into a thriving forest
Guizhou province, located in South China's karst region, is home to historic cities and breathtaking landscapes. Yet, poor planning and extensive land use are exacerbating rocky desertification across the delicate Karst ecosystem, which leaves the land sapped of nutrients and desert-like. Without action, the desertification will continue to spread.
benefit from improved skills, through forest management trainings, such as fire prevention or forest pest control
are women
employed by the project
sequestered from the atmosphere on average each year
afforested thanks to the project
To tackle the issue, the project is planting native trees, such as China fir, Cypresses and Masson pin on barren, rocky land. The planting areas are strategically located to reconnect forested areas, restoring habitat connectivity. Local people are employed and trained by the project to carry out the tree planting, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy.
As well as sequestering carbon and mitigating climate change, the project improves the local environment by creating healthier, more fertile soils thanks to stabilising tree roots that prevent erosion and mudslides and, crucially, fight against the rocky desertification creeping across the region. Biodiversity in the region is enhanced, while new well-paid job and training opportunities can lead to a significant rise in prospects for local people. Women are also empowered as they represent 70% of the beneficiaries.
