Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the successful efforts in combating desertification in Liaoning Province, particularly through the introduction and cultivation of the Chinese fir (樟子松) in the region, showcasing a significant transformation from sand encroachment to afforestation and environmental restoration [1][6][9]. Group 1: Historical Context and Development - In the 1950s, the establishment of the Liaoning Provincial Forestry Research Station marked the beginning of organized efforts to combat desertification in the region [1][6]. - The introduction of Chinese fir by Liu Bin in the 1980s was pivotal, as it demonstrated the potential for afforestation in arid and sandy areas, despite initial challenges [3][6]. - By 1978, the afforestation technology using Chinese fir received national recognition, leading to its widespread adoption in the "Three North" regions of China, with over 10 million acres now covered [3][6]. Group 2: Contributions of Individuals - The dedication of individuals like Li Dongkui, who has spent over 30 years protecting and nurturing the Chinese fir forests, exemplifies the grassroots efforts that have contributed to the success of these initiatives [3][5][6]. - Li's commitment in harsh conditions underscores the human element in environmental restoration efforts [3][6]. Group 3: Current Achievements and Future Prospects - The area of sand-affected land in Zhangwu County has significantly decreased from 96% in the 1950s to 36.56% today, with a dramatic reduction in sandstorm days from 43 to an average of 5 per year [6]. - The merger of research institutions in 2018 has enhanced the capacity for sand management and afforestation, with over 20 billion seedlings produced annually [6][8]. - The adaptability of Chinese fir and other species is being leveraged for international efforts, with seedlings being exported to Mongolia for desertification control [8][9].

今年6月17日是第三十一个世界防治荒漠化与干旱日。黄沙退却，新绿涌动。截至2024年底，我国53% 的可治理沙化土地得到有效治理，沙化土地面积净减少6500万亩，在全球率先实现土地退化"零增长"、 荒漠化和沙化土地"双缩减"。 荒漠化防治离不开全民广泛参与，更离不开治沙人的接力坚守。从挖坑种树到沙漠锁边，逼退了沙线， 却熬白了头发；从"板上发电"到"板下种植"，贡献智慧与力量，让防沙治沙更有科技含量；从"沙进人 退"到"绿进沙退"，一代代治沙人接续传承，一个个绿色奇迹不断书写。近日，本报记者采访了来自山 西、内蒙古、甘肃三地的治沙人，听他们讲述久久为功征战沙海、播撒希望的故事。 ——编者 山西右玉县村民王占峰扎根荒山种树40多年 一次选择 就是一生的承诺 本报记者郑洋洋 这是一双粗糙的手。和王占峰握手时，记者观察到，他的手心布满因劳动结下的茧子。王占峰是山西右 玉县牛心乡老墙框村人，30岁那年，他从几公里外的村子跑到石砲沟种树，这一待就是40多年。 "昨晚刚下了一场雨。趁着有水，赶紧上山看看。"王占峰凌晨4点就起了床，扛着铁锹上了山。 王占峰就住在靠近沟边的坡上。从屋门口往远处望去，满眼皆是绿意。绿草、樟子松 ...