Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the transformation of Wuqi County in Shaanxi, China, from barren land to a green and economically vibrant area through extensive afforestation and sustainable agricultural practices, resulting in increased income for local residents [4][12]. Group 1: Afforestation and Environmental Impact - Wuqi County has achieved a forest and grass coverage rate of 72.9%, up from 19.2% in 1997, due to long-term afforestation efforts [4][6][7]. - The county has cumulatively converted 2.46 million acres of land from farming to forestry, significantly improving the local ecosystem [6][11]. - The introduction of scientific planting methods has increased tree survival rates to over 90% [6]. Group 2: Economic Development and Agricultural Practices - The development of various industries such as fruit and vegetable farming, aquaculture, and eco-tourism has provided substantial income for local farmers, with an average annual increase of about 600,000 yuan per village [9][10]. - Wuqi County has over 352 reservoirs and more than 15,000 acres of aquaculture, contributing to a total agricultural output value exceeding 1.7 billion yuan in 2024 [9][10]. - The county's eco-tourism sector is thriving, with over 840,000 visitors expected in 2024, generating a tourism revenue of 413 million yuan [10]. Group 3: Future Prospects and Innovations - Wuqi County has signed a carbon trading agreement, developing 790,000 acres of carbon sink forests, with an estimated initial trading volume of 240,000 tons and projected revenue of 19.2 million yuan [11]. - The focus on enhancing the quality and efficiency of afforestation efforts indicates a strategic shift towards sustainable economic growth [6][12].

Core Viewpoint - China's ambitious ecological restoration projects have transformed the Loess Plateau, previously one of the most severely degraded areas, leading to a significant return of endangered bird species as a testament to ecological balance restoration [1][2] Group 1: Ecological Restoration Efforts - The Chinese government initiated the "Grain for Green" program at the end of the 20th century to combat desertification and restore ecosystems, resulting in over 30,000 square kilometers of rain-fed farmland being converted to forests or grasslands by 2016 [1] - Vegetation coverage increased by 25% over a decade, with the forest and grassland coverage on the Loess Plateau rising from 31.6% in 1999 to 67% in 2020, marking a historic transformation from barren to green [1] Group 2: Biodiversity and Wildlife Return - The restoration efforts have not only reduced soil erosion but also gradually restored biodiversity, with a significant number of bird species returning to the region, indicating the success of the ecological project [2] - As of 2024, data recorded 2,852 animals representing 69 different species in the area, showcasing the positive impact of artificial reforestation on nesting species and the stabilization of the local ecosystem [2] Group 3: Symbolic Species and Ecological Impact - In October 2023, 40 captive-bred Crested Ibis, a species once on the brink of extinction in China, were released back into the Loess Plateau, symbolizing China's commitment to species conservation [2] - The returning bird populations play a crucial role in stabilizing the plateau's ecosystem by aiding in seed dispersal, which accelerates natural vegetation regeneration [2]