{
  "id": 8053953,
  "title": "Photos: Fighting Against Desertification in China",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/17/photos-fighting-against-desertification-in-china",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-09-17T15:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Atlantic",
    "slug": "the-atlantic",
    "url": "https://www.theatlantic.com/photography/2026/09/photos-fighting-against-desertification-china/688634/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Desertification poses a significant threat across China, with millions of acres of land transformed into barren expanses. In response, local governments have implemented a diverse set of measures aimed at curbing the advance of deserts.\n\nIn the Taklimakan Desert, near Yuli County in Xinjiang, drones have become an integral tool for sand-control efforts. Straw windbreaks planted in checkerboard patterns across the dunes help to prevent wind-blown sand from further encroaching on surrounding lands.\n\nIn Gansu Province, the Kumtag Desert has been the focus of sand barrier construction. Staff members work diligently to lay these barriers, employing various techniques to contain the shifting sands.\n\nMinqin County, sandwiched between two of China's largest deserts, has become one of the country's most affected regions. Covering 94 percent of its land area, the county has been a major source of sandstorms. In an effort to combat this, tree-planting campaigns have been launched, successfully planting over 1 million drought-resistant saplings since 2024.\n\nThe struggle against desertification continues across other regions as well. In Zhangwu County, local women plow sand before planting trees and setting up windbreaks, demonstrating the community's active role in these efforts. In Zhangye, residents prepare for potential sandstorms with sand control measures in place.\n\nTechnological advancements also play a crucial role in the fight against desertification. In Ningxia, solar panels are integrated into desertification-control areas, providing sustainable energy solutions while simultaneously working to stabilize the land.\n\nThese collective efforts showcase China's commitment to mitigating the impacts of desertification. Through a combination of traditional methods, community engagement, and innovative technology, the nation is working to restore and protect its vulnerable lands.",
  "summary": "For decades, residents and workers in northern and western China have been battling growing deserts using multiple methods, including “straw checkerboards,” to slow the shifting sands and boost fertility.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}