Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the successful transformation of the Khorchin Sandy Land in Liaoning Province from desert to green land through extensive afforestation and desertification control efforts, highlighting the achievements and ongoing initiatives in combating desertification and promoting ecological restoration [4][5][18]. Group 1: Desertification Control Efforts - The Khorchin Sandy Land is the largest sandy area in China, and over the past 70 years, significant progress has been made in preventing its southward expansion, achieving a historic shift from "desert encroachment" to "greening" [5][6]. - As of August 2023, the "elimination battle" against desertification has completed comprehensive management tasks covering 9.92 million acres, which is 40% of the total eight-year target [5][11]. - The average vegetation coverage of sandy forest land and the soil and water conservation rates have significantly improved due to these efforts [5]. Group 2: Ecological Restoration Projects - The construction of a 1,044-kilometer "green belt" in Liaoning is a key project in the desertification control battle, connecting multiple counties and cities [6]. - Various ecological restoration methods have been implemented, including the use of diverse tree species and scientific planting techniques to enhance the stability and effectiveness of the ecosystem [9][10]. - The "DJS planting method" has been developed to improve tree survival rates, achieving a 90% survival rate for newly planted trees in challenging terrains [10]. Group 3: Economic Benefits from Ecological Initiatives - The integration of ecological restoration with economic development is emphasized, with initiatives like the "ecological + under-forest medicinal materials" model, which aims to generate income from medicinal plants while enhancing ecological benefits [12]. - The average income from medicinal plants can exceed 15,000 yuan per acre, showcasing the potential for economic growth alongside environmental restoration [12]. - The development of under-forest economy projects, such as the cultivation of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, is being promoted to increase local farmers' incomes and support sustainable development [13]. Group 4: Urban Greening and Community Engagement - Urban greening projects have been initiated to improve the quality of life for residents, with significant investments leading to increased urban green coverage from 15.2% to 40.84% [16]. - Community involvement in greening efforts has transformed previously barren areas into vibrant parks and recreational spaces, enhancing local aesthetics and environmental quality [15][16]. - The comprehensive management approach includes not only afforestation but also the restoration of wetlands and the improvement of urban landscapes, benefiting both the environment and the community [17].

Group 1 - The core idea is the development of medicinal herb cultivation in sandy areas of Liaoning province, specifically in Zhangwu County, to enhance economic value and combat land degradation [1][2] - Zhangwu County has a history of land desertification, with 96% of its area affected, prompting local efforts to integrate forestry and under-forest economies for better economic returns [1][2] - The local government is implementing a model combining party leadership, cooperatives, and enterprises to encourage villagers to plant drought-resistant medicinal herbs, with expected annual income of 19,000 yuan per acre during the peak production period [1] Group 2 - In 2024, Zhangwu County will release a five-year development plan focusing on forestry and under-forest economies, aiming for a diversified development model that includes medicinal herbs, seedlings, flowers, vegetables, fungi, and silkworm farming [2] - Since 2023, Liaoning province has invested 2.4 billion yuan in combating desertification, achieving comprehensive management of 9.92 million acres and exploring green and prosperous development through projects like grafting Chinese red pine onto other species [2] - In Changtu County, a forest farm has completed afforestation of over 125,000 acres, protecting surrounding farmland and generating significant economic benefits through grafting red pine onto other trees [2]