“防沙治沙既添绿也‘生金’”——黄河岸边一个防沙林场的生态蜕变

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the successful implementation of a photovoltaic sand control project in Inner Mongolia, which combines ecological restoration with renewable energy generation, showcasing a model for sustainable development in arid regions [1][3][5]. Group 1: Project Overview - The photovoltaic sand control project in the Xinhua Forest Farm is designed to combat desertification while generating renewable energy, with an expected annual electricity generation of 360 million kilowatt-hours once operational [3]. - The project employs a unique layout of solar panels that follows the natural terrain, maintaining a distance of 13.5 meters between panels to ensure optimal sunlight exposure and protect existing sand plants [1][3]. Group 2: Ecological Impact - The Xinhua Forest Farm has successfully reduced its sandy area from 21,500 acres to 5,000 acres, achieving a forest coverage rate of 65% through various afforestation and sand control initiatives [3][4]. - The farm has planted 4.3 million trees and has seen an increase in tree survival rates, demonstrating effective sand control methods such as using trees and grasses to stabilize the soil [3][4]. Group 3: Community Involvement - Over 2,000 local villagers have participated in the project, benefiting from employment opportunities that provide daily wages of 300 yuan, thus enhancing community engagement in ecological restoration efforts [4]. - The project aims to create more value from green initiatives, with plans to develop smart seedling bases and explore new business models like "photovoltaic plus" to further integrate ecological protection with economic development [4]. Group 4: Broader Context - The Xinhua Forest Farm's success is part of a larger effort in Inner Mongolia to combat desertification along the Yellow River, with a total of 14.89 million acres treated in the past two years [5]. - The region is transitioning from traditional labor-intensive methods to mechanized and intelligent management for sand control, enhancing the effectiveness of ecological protection measures [5].