Core Viewpoint - The newly constructed Bayin-Pugebu Sand Crossing Road in Inner Mongolia represents a significant advancement in desertification control, transforming the region from "sand encroachment" to "road advancement" and serving as a "green artery" for ecological restoration and livelihood improvement [1][3]. Group 1: Project Overview - The Bayin-Pugebu Sand Crossing Road spans 16.81 kilometers and effectively divides the shifting sand dunes, implementing a governance model of "road delineation, sand blockage, and economic development" [1][3]. - The road construction is part of the "Three-North" project, which employs a scientific approach to desertification control, including road construction, sand fixation, and planting drought-resistant vegetation [3][5]. Group 2: Economic and Ecological Impact - The road has not only improved the local environment but also facilitated economic opportunities, such as easier access for solar energy projects and job creation for local farmers and herders [5][7]. - The local government plans to implement an additional 55 kilometers of "road-based desertification control" projects by 2025, building on the 544 kilometers of existing sand crossing roads that have already contributed to the ecological restoration of nearly 490,000 acres [5][7]. Group 3: Technological and Scientific Foundations - The success of the "road-based desertification control" strategy is rooted in decades of accumulated experience and technological advancements in desertification management in Inner Mongolia [5][7]. - Historical innovations, such as the comprehensive sand prevention system developed during the construction of the Baolan Railway, have laid the groundwork for current practices, which aim to provide replicable solutions for desertification control both nationally and globally [7].

Core Viewpoint - The global issue of desertification significantly impacts biodiversity, ecological security, poverty alleviation, socio-economic stability, and sustainable development, with a focus on the importance of healthy land in providing food, water resources, employment, and security [1][2]. Group 1: Global Impact of Desertification - Desertification affects nearly half of the global population, with up to 40% of land already degraded, threatening food security, water quality, and overall human health [2]. - The consequences of desertification include reduced agricultural output, worsening water supply, increased greenhouse gas emissions, and heightened risks of natural disasters and social conflicts [2]. Group 2: China's Efforts in Combating Desertification - China has made significant progress in desertification control, transitioning from "desert encroachment" to "greening efforts," and has achieved a dual reduction in desertified and sandy land areas [1][4]. - The country actively participates in global desertification governance, sharing its successful experiences and technologies, such as the "Three-North Shelter Forest Program," to assist other regions like the Sahel and Central Asia [5][6]. Group 3: Innovative Techniques and Global Cooperation - Various innovative techniques for desertification control include the use of biological soil crusts and water resource management strategies, which are essential for transforming sand into fertile soil [3]. - China promotes international cooperation through training programs, forums, and the establishment of cross-border desertification control centers, contributing to global efforts in combating desertification [5][6].