In recent years, Nedong District of Shannan City, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, has been coordinating and advancing the integrated protection and systematic governance of mountains, rivers, forests, farmlands, lakes, grasslands, and sand. Adhering to the principle of nurturing the ecological foundation with green development, it has scientifically carried out land greening initiatives and implemented key ecological projects, for instance, the greening project of the northern and southern mountains, continuously strengthening the green ecological security barrier.

In the past, Nedong District was characterized by sparse vegetation. In spring, strong winds would whip up sand, while in summer, heavy rains often led to flooding, along with frequent geological disasters such as mudslides and landslides. The natural environment was harsh, and the local people suffered greatly from the scourge of windblown sand. "Planting greenery extensively and nurturing lush mountains" became the most urgent aspiration of the local populace.

Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets. The second phase of the 2024 afforestation and greening project of Nedong District covers four areas with a total scale of 3.93 km², while the project in 2025 consists of 7 areas with a total scale of 9.5 km². The afforestation and greening project is in full swing...

When the spring breeze sweeps across the banks of the Yarlung Zangbo River, it no longer carries with it billowing sand and dust, but instead, a vision of lush greenery meets the eye.

Under the warm spring sunshine, Chonda, a 42-year-old villager from Qiadang Village of Nedong District, joined his fellow villagers in a tree-planting activity. Once a herbal gatherer, he, like the villagers around him, has now transformed into an "ecological guardian."

In 2024, Nedong District guided the surrounding farmers and herdsmen to participate in afforestation, ensuring that no less than 70% of the employed workers involved in the greening project of the northern and southern mountains are local.

Through participating in afforestation and greening projects as well as working at a cement factory, Chonda and his wife managed to increase their annual household income to over 60,000 yuan, a fourfold increase compared to the past. During the process of afforestation, Chonda acquired skills in seedling selection, soil improvement, seedling planting and maintenance, as well as pest and disease control.

In Nedong District, there are numerous farmers and herders like Chonda and his wife who have increased their income through "ecological employment." It is understood that in recent years, Nedong District in Shannan City has driven local residents to boost their income by 6.24 million yuan through afforestation and greening initiatives, and an additional 1.05 million yuan through mechanical operations. Tree planting has not only turned barren mountains green but also fattened the wallets of ordinary people.

With a beaming smile, Chonda said, "look, these saplings have only been planted for a little over a year, and already this barren hillside has turned much greener, with far fewer sandstorm days. Now, when we go out on windy days, we don't have to bundle up so tightly anymore."

In the advancement of the greening projects for the southern and northern mountains, technology plays a pivotal role. At the greening sites, drones can transport soil and saplings to the hillsides within just one minute.

Nedong District has achieved precise planning, scientific construction, and effective management of its afforestation and greening projects by employing modern technological means such as drone monitoring, remote sensing technology, and geographic information systems. Meanwhile, Nedong District adheres to the principle of giving priority to the protection of native vegetation while integrating artificial and natural restoration methods, further ensuring scientific and orderly green planting.

At various tree-planting sites across Nedong District, local cadres and the masses rolled up their sleeves and planted trees with great enthusiasm. Each sapling they planted not only improved the ecological environment but also built a green Great Wall to prevent wind erosion and stabilize sand.

Reporter: Wu Peitao

Translator: Zhi Xinghua, Liu Fang

Review: Hu Rongguo, Drakpa Wangchen