Discover how China used rabbits in the Chinese desert to reverse desertification and thrive.
When we think of deserts, we imagine vast, desolate expanses of sand where plant survival is nearly impossible. But the China surprised the world by transforming the Dalad Banner desert into a lush green oasis. How? By releasing 1,2 million rabbits into the Chinese desert!
In 1988, the renowned Chinese scientist Qian Xuesen criticized traditional reforestation strategies, stating that simply planting trees would not solve desertification. He proposed an integrated approach, combining pastures, agricultural land and livestock to effectively combat the problem.
Chinese entrepreneurs embraced this bold vision. After research, they decided to introduce the Rex rabbit, originally from France. At first, many doubted that rabbits could have a significant impact. But the results were surprising!
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The crucial role of rabbits in China's desert
Rex rabbits have adapted perfectly to the arid environment. They dig the ground in search of roots and hay., increasing aeration and enriching it with nutrients through its excrement and undigested seeds. This promoted an impressive plant survival rate, reaching 96%..
Additionally, we bring its high reproduction rate—each rabbit can produce up to 40 offspring per year—accelerated the soil recovery process. China currently has over 1 million of these desert rabbits., making management of the region much more effective.
Economic benefits and international recognition
It wasn't just the environment that benefited. Rabbit farming has become a profitable industry for the locals.. The high-quality meat and fur of Rex rabbits generated significant income. Average annual income of farmers has increased to about $20.000, improving the quality of life in the region.
The United Nations has recognized China's efforts, designating the country's deserts as a global ecological economic demonstration zone. In February 2023, agricultural experts from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates visited the area, interested in replicating the success.
Growing food in the desert: a remarkable feat
Excited about the results, farmers expanded their activities to grow potatoes. In an area of 42.200 km², about 12.000 farmers cultivated nearly 1.620 hectares of potatoes, reaching an annual production of 1,7 million kg.
After five years of experiments, the yield per hectare increased significantly. This feat attracted international attention, with agricultural experts from different countries interested in learning the techniques used.
An integrated industrial chain
The combination of rabbit farming, reforestation and agriculture created a sustainable industrial chain. Everyone benefits mutually, promoting environmental preservation and economic development. Success challenges conventional agricultural concepts and offers a viable solution for other deserts around the world.
And you, do you believe that this innovative strategy from China can be applied in other global deserts? Leave your opinion in the comments!
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