Proposal for Greening the Gobi Desert, Community-Led: An Integrated Ecological Restoration and Socio-Economic Development Project

Executive Summary

This proposal details an innovative initiative to green the Gobi Desert, based on an "adopt-a-hectare" model, actively involving communities in China and Mongolia.

The project aims to address the urgent challenges of desertification by implementing multifunctional ecological techniques, while generating substantial socio-economic benefits and promoting a sustainable approach to arid land management. By integrating soil improvement methods, efficient water management, and the strategic reintroduction of native species, the initiative seeks to create favorable microclimates and resilient ecosystems. Aligned with Tsinghua University's leading expertise in environmental science and ecological engineering, the project offers a unique platform for applied research, technological development, and cross-border collaboration. The success of this model is anticipated to complement existing governmental efforts, such as China's Great Green Wall, and serve as a replicable prototype for arid landscape restoration globally, contributing to broader sustainable development and ecological security goals.

1. Introduction: The Imperative of Greening the Gobi Desert

1.1 The Expanding Gobi Desert: Ecological Challenge and Regional Impact

The Gobi Desert, a vast cold expanse stretching across northern China and southern Mongolia, covers over 1.6 million square kilometers and is rapidly expanding.1 This desertification represents a critical ecological challenge, leading to significant annual loss of grasslands (approximately 3600 km²) and topsoil (2000 km²) in China, while affecting 70% of Mongolia's land area.1 Key contributing factors to this degradation include human activities such as overgrazing, water diversion, and deforestation, exacerbated by climate change and drought.2 These conditions lead to an increase in the frequency and intensity of sandstorms, soil erosion, and serious threats to regional biodiversity.2

A deep understanding of this situation reveals the close interconnectedness between environmental degradation and human livelihoods. Available data consistently indicate a direct link between the expansion of the Gobi Desert and socio-economic consequences. For example, the loss of grasslands directly impacts nomadic pastoral communities in Mongolia 2, while dust storms affect agricultural economies in China.3 The user's proposal, by including job creation and family involvement, implicitly recognizes that desertification is not only an ecological problem but also a human one. Therefore, a successful greening project must be designed to integrate socio-economic benefits, such as sustainable livelihoods and community empowerment, to ensure long-term viability and genuine local support. This holistic perspective is essential for the framing and success of the project.

1.2 Tsinghua University's Leadership in Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering

Tsinghua University, a top research institution in Beijing, ranks globally in Environmental Science and Engineering.6 Its School of Environment includes specialized divisions in Water Environment, Soil and Groundwater, Environmental Biology, and Environmental Health, all directly relevant to arid land restoration.8 The university's research interests encompass biodiversity conservation, ecosystem changes and monitoring, pollution control, and sustainable urban water systems, integrating advanced technologies and ecological approaches.7 Tsinghua University's commitment to interdisciplinary, practical research, supported by substantial government funding and extensive international collaborations, uniquely positions it to lead a project of this magnitude.6

The choice of Tsinghua University for this proposal is strategic, given the institution's demonstrated research expertise and infrastructure in addressing environmental challenges relevant to the Gobi. The university's specific research areas, such as soil and groundwater environment, environmental biology, and water management 8, directly align with the proposed restoration techniques. This suggests that the proposal should not only present the project idea but also explicitly articulate how Tsinghua University's existing research strengths can be leveraged. By proposing specific research questions that align with the university's "international, open, and practice-oriented" Global Environment Program 9, the project can maximize its academic merit and real-world impact potential, positioning itself as a flagship initiative for Tsinghua.

1.3 Project Vision: Promoting Community-Led Desert Restoration

The central vision of this project is to transform desert greening efforts from a predominantly governmental or large-scale initiative into a community-driven model that fosters deep engagement and a sense of ownership at individual and family levels. The proposal to allow Chinese families to "adopt" one hectare and the Mongolian people to adopt ten hectares (or collaborate) of desert land in the Gobi, with a monthly subscription for maintenance work, is an innovative approach [User Query]. This strategy not only ensures a decentralized funding source but also creates a direct link between citizens and ecological restoration efforts.

A fundamental aspect of this vision is the recognition that community involvement is not just a means to mobilize resources, but also a critical factor for the long-term success and sustainability of ecological restoration projects. Previous experiences in desertification control in China have shown that, in addition to large-scale governmental initiatives such as the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program ("Great Green Wall") 5, public and local community involvement plays a vital role.11 Projects like those in Minqin, Gansu province, have demonstrated that greening methods, including drip irrigation and sand barriers, significantly increased forest coverage, and local participation was essential.11 The proposal to integrate families into the "adoption" process and allow them to contribute directly, either through voluntary work (e.g., building dry vegetation fences) or financial support for local services, leverages this principle [User Query]. This transforms citizens from mere beneficiaries into active participants and stewards of the land, strengthening the link between human well-being and ecosystem health. This approach aligns with the concept of "land stewardship," which involves the responsible management of land resources to ensure long-term health and productivity, balancing economic, social, and environmental needs.14

2. Methodological Approach: Integrated Greening Strategies

2.1 Soil Improvement and Stabilization

Desert soil, often sandy, lacking moisture, and with low fertility, poses a major challenge for greening efforts.15 To transform these conditions, the proposal relies on a combination of soil improvement and stabilization techniques, essential for stabilizing the landscape and supporting vegetation growth.

2.1.1 Composting and Vermicomposting

The introduction of plant waste for composting and earthworms for vermicomposting is a key component of the strategy [User Query]. Compost improves soil structure, water retention capacity, and nutrient availability, being a sustainable way to recycle organic waste into valuable garden resources.15 In desert conditions, composting requires special attention to maintaining moisture (at least 50%), placing it in shaded areas to minimize evaporation, and reducing ventilation and turning frequency to prevent rapid drying.15 Adding dry, bulky materials such as branches and corn stalks can improve aeration, and covering the pile helps seal in moisture and insulate it.15

Earthworms play a crucial role in this process. Red Wigglers are considered ideal for vermicomposting because they live in the top layer of the soil and tolerate desert heat better than common earthworms, which burrow deeper.18 Earthworms contribute to soil fertility by decomposing organic matter and producing "casts" (worm excrement), which are rich in nutrients and organic matter.19 These casts can contain 5 times more nitrogen, 7 times more phosphorus, and 1000 times more beneficial bacteria than the original soil, contributing to plant growth.20 The tunnels created by earthworms improve soil aeration, drainage (soils with earthworms drain up to 10 times faster), and water retention capacity, facilitating the penetration of roots, water, and nutrients.19 They also help stabilize soil structure, making it less prone to wind erosion.21 To ensure the viability of earthworms in arid conditions, it is essential to maintain a moist and cool environment, for example, by using partially buried compost bins, placed in the shade, with a thick layer of bedding materials and adding water-rich waste.23

2.1.2 Sand Barriers and Vegetation Fences

Vegetation fences, mentioned in the user's proposal as a method to prevent sand dispersal [User Query], are a form of "windbreaks."4 These are made of trees and shrubs and are used to reduce soil erosion and evapotranspiration.4 Studies have shown that increased vegetation cover exponentially reduces the rate of erosion and water runoff.4 In desert areas, vegetation fences can be complemented with gravel stages to encourage the reestablishment of a soil crust.1 Sand fences can also be used to control soil movement and sand erosion.4 These physical measures help stabilize sand dunes and create more favorable microclimates for plant growth, reducing the impact of wind and sun on the soil.5

2.2 Efficient Water Management

Water availability is an essential function of desert greening.27 The project must integrate efficient water management strategies to sustain vegetation in the Gobi, a region with low annual precipitation (100-250 mm).1

2.2.1 Rainwater Harvesting and Advanced Irrigation

Collecting rainwater and storing it in ponds, reservoirs, or underground tanks is one of the simplest ways to improve soil moisture content, contributing to increased green cover and agricultural production in arid areas.27 This method is effective for increasing water availability and can contribute to desert greening by increasing soil moisture, providing a reliable water source for plants, even during periods of low rainfall.27 It also plays an important role in recharging groundwater, which is easily depleted in many arid areas, exacerbating aridity.27 Rainwater harvesting is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution that can be implemented at various scales, from individual households to large-scale agricultural systems.27

In addition to rainwater harvesting, the use of precision irrigation systems is vital. Drip irrigation and subsurface methods deliver water directly to plant roots, reducing evaporation and runoff by up to 60%.14 These systems can be integrated with sensors, IoT devices, and smart controllers to adapt to plant needs in real-time and monitor soil moisture.28 Techniques such as Negarim micro-basins, which collect runoff water in an infiltration pit for trees and shrubs, are also suitable for arid areas.30

2.2.2 Innovative Water Technologies

The project can also explore advanced technologies to supplement water resources. Desalination, especially solar-powered units, can produce over 1,000 liters of fresh water daily from saline or brackish water, opening up new arid regions for sustainable agriculture.28 Although atmospheric water generation (dehumidification) is a technique, it requires 200 times more energy than desalination, making it less suitable for large-scale desert greening.27 Another approach, though with potential flood risks, is cloud seeding to produce precipitation in drier climates.27

2.3 Selection and Introduction of Plant and Animal Species

Selecting appropriate species and strategically introducing fauna are crucial for the success of ecological restoration in the Gobi.

2.3.1 Drought-Resistant Plant Species

Planting water-retaining trees that inhibit wind erosion, draw water from underground aquifers, and reduce evaporation after rain is a key strategy.27 Choosing the right crops is vital for desert agriculture. Traditional crops such as millet, sorghum, date palm, and legumes tolerate heat and water scarcity.28 Legumes, in particular, fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting neighboring plants and creating a more symbiotic and sustainable garden ecosystem.4 Additionally, modern biotechnology, through gene editing (CRISPR) and marker-assisted breeding, expands options for drought-resistant crops.28 The use of pioneer desert species, such as

Acamptopappus shockleyi or Lepidium fremontii, native to the Mojave Desert, and halophytes like Salicornia, contributes positively to desert greening efforts.27

2.3.2 Ecological Role of Rabbits

The proposal to introduce steppe or desert rabbit families to make nests [User Query] aligns with an innovative strategy tested in China. Recent projects have demonstrated the success of using Rex rabbits as "ecological engineers" to transform desert areas into green agricultural land.31 This approach relies on the rabbits' ability to reproduce quickly and tolerate heat.31 Rabbits contribute to desert greening by improving soil organic matter through their waste, fertilizing the land, and accelerating vegetation growth.25 Their burrows help break down compacted sand, creating conditions for plant roots to spread and contributing to erosion control.25 Their presence supports the growth of grass and shrubs, which stabilize the soil and prevent sandstorms.25 This model has been described as a "perpetual motion machine for terraforming," where rabbit manure is transformed into organic fertilizer and biogas, creating a closed-loop system that supports environmental restoration and economic benefits for farmers.32

However, it is essential to approach species introduction with caution, given potential negative ecological impacts. For example, the introduction of European rabbits to islands in Chile led to overgrazing and a decline in native reptile and insect populations.33 A careful analysis of the proposed rabbit species (steppe or desert rabbit) is necessary to ensure it is native or at least non-invasive to the Gobi ecosystem and that its ecological role is beneficial, not harmful.27 For example, the Cape hare (

Lepus capensis) inhabits semi-desert areas and feeds on grass and shrubs, practicing coprophagy to maximize nutrition, which could contribute to soil fertility.35 Research should focus on native lagomorph species (the order that includes rabbits and hares) and their specific ecological impact in the Gobi, to avoid undesirable outcomes observed in other regions.36 Satellite monitoring of rabbit breeding zones in the desert in China has allowed scientists to track vegetation health, soil surface temperatures, and changing sand patterns, providing crucial data for adjusting strategies in real-time.37

2.4 Creating Microclimates and Protected Environments

To accelerate the greening process and protect young vegetation, creating microclimates and controlled environments is fundamental.

2.4.1 Mulching and Shading

Applying organic mulch (e.g., straw, wood chips) around plants helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.17 Mulch gradually decomposes, adding organic matter and nutrients to the soil, promoting a healthier ecosystem for plant roots.17 Shade, provided by solar panels or dedicated structures, can reduce the harsh impact of the sun on the soil, creating more favorable conditions for vegetation growth.5 Solar panels have been documented to reduce wind speed at ground level, helping to prevent sand dune movement and minimize dust, leading to better air quality and improved conditions for plant growth.5

2.4.2 Greenhouses and Controlled Environments

Greenhouses and controlled environments allow for crop cultivation in arid regions with limited freshwater availability, reducing pressure on traditional freshwater sources.27 These utilize technologies such as heating and cooling systems, ventilation, irrigation systems, artificial lighting, and pest control measures.27 Greenhouses made of transparent materials, such as glass or plastic, allow sunlight to penetrate while trapping heat inside.27 Integration with AI-driven agricultural management platforms helps optimize energy use in automated greenhouses and vertical farms.28 These innovations enable controlled environment agriculture, using nutrient-enriched water and requiring up to 90% less water than traditional methods.28

3. Implementation and Funding Model

The "adopt-a-hectare" proposal requires a robust implementation and funding framework that leverages both individual contributions and strategic partnerships.

3.1 The "Adopt a Hectare" Model: Structure and Benefits

The proposed model, where Chinese families adopt one hectare and the Mongolian people adopt ten hectares (or collaborate) [User Query], is a form of "adopt-a-land" or "adopt-a-plot."38 This allows individuals, families, or community groups to get directly involved in cleaning and maintaining a specific area. While traditionally, adopt-a-tree or adopt-a-plot programs do not involve physical land ownership, they offer a digital certificate and regular progress updates, creating a sense of involvement and impact.38

3.1.1 Monthly Subscription and Job Creation

The monthly subscription component for work on the adopted hectare [User Query] is a key innovation. This would ensure a steady income stream for land maintenance and, more importantly, create jobs for local communities [User Query]. This approach aligns with successful strategies in China, where desert restoration projects have generated employment opportunities for locals. For example, in the Kubuqi Desert in Inner Mongolia, solar projects combined with desertification control efforts have employed local farmers, transforming them into sand dune workers.40 Companies like Inner Mongolia Hesheng Eco-Afforestation Company have created over 1.14 million temporary workdays through activities such as land preparation, seedling cultivation, and tree planting, care, and protection, increasing farmers' average income by 34%.41 This approach not only addresses desertification but also contributes to social stability and income growth in rural areas.41

3.1.2 Direct Family Involvement and Volunteering

The proposal includes the possibility for a family member to go on vacation to build vegetation fences or to pay a company or the state to do so [User Query]. This flexibility allows for varying levels of involvement, from financial contributions to direct physical labor. Volunteer programs in desert greening projects, such as the "Greening the Desert Project," offer hands-on experience in arid climate permaculture techniques, water conservation, and working with small-scale animal systems (rabbits and chickens).42 These opportunities can strengthen participants' emotional connection to the project and increase ecological awareness.

3.2 Complementary Funding Mechanisms

In addition to monthly subscriptions, the project can benefit from a diversity of funding mechanisms, especially those involving donations from middle to high-income families.

3.2.1 Crowdfunding and Micro-Donations

Crowdfunding has emerged as a popular way for communities to raise funds for specific projects, appealing directly to individuals passionate about environmental issues.43 In China, crowdfunding includes reward-based and donation-based models, which can be used for public welfare projects.44 Organizations like Friends of Nature in China, one of the oldest environmental protection organizations, mobilize the public through "micro-experiences" and large-scale initiatives, supported by charitable foundations that support local organizations and research institutes.45 The UNDP Small Grants Programme (SGP) in China, with co-financing from communities and other donors, has supported 149 projects in 26 provinces, providing grants totaling US$7.05 million to local NGOs for biodiversity conservation and land degradation combat projects.46 This demonstrates the viability of micro-donations and grants for community initiatives.

3.2.2 Individual and Corporate Sponsorships

Individual and corporate sponsorships can provide significant financial support. Companies increasingly recognize the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and can offer financial support or in-kind contributions to local environmental initiatives.43 Programs like "Adopt-a-Tree" or "Adopt-a-Plot" offer various sponsorship levels, including in-kind sponsorships, with visibility and promotion benefits for partner organizations.47 These allow companies to demonstrate their commitment to the environment and contribute to solutions that impact climate change and community health.49

3.3 Legal Framework and Cross-Border Cooperation

The Gobi Desert is a transboundary space, and the success of such a project depends on a clear legal framework and strong cooperation between China and Mongolia.

3.3.1 Land Tenure Regime and Existing Agreements

The Gobi Desert spans China and Mongolia, with a 4,630 km border, most of which lies in the desert.2 While China has implemented extensive government programs, such as the "Great Green Wall" 2, Mongolia has focused on adapting to natural hazards, with 70% of its territory affected by desertification.2 There is a difference in national approaches to land management: China exercises strong state control, which can limit residents' ability to maintain traditional coping strategies, while Mongolia offers flexibility but has limited post-event response capacity.51

Cross-border cooperation is essential, given that the impact of desertification extends beyond political boundaries.53 Bilateral agreements exist, such as the "Agreement between the Government of Mongolia and the Government of the People's Republic of China on Border Regime," involving water and forestry departments and local government officials.55 Integrating multiple divisions within a hazard zone is essential for risk reduction; without this, disaster mitigation remains state-specific and lacks applicability to a wider area.51 Any land adoption project would require negotiations and agreements at the governmental level to define the rights and responsibilities of adopting families, especially in the context of state land ownership in China and traditional pastoral practices in Mongolia.52

3.3.2 Accountability and Transparency Mechanisms

To ensure the project's success and integrity, establishing accountability and transparency mechanisms is crucial. China has made progress in this regard, with new "Green Finance Guidelines" requiring Chinese banks and insurers to establish grievance mechanisms to address concerns from affected communities.57 A proposed mechanism for the mining sector, for example, includes provisions for the right to representation, commitment to rights-based agreements, confidentiality, and prohibition of coercion and retaliation.58 These mechanisms can provide avenues for communities to express concerns about the social and environmental impacts of projects.58

For a community-led "land adoption" project, a similar framework could be adapted. This would involve:

Clear governance structures: A board of members, composed of residents, local government representatives, and non-profit organizations, could oversee the mission, structure, and financial operations of the greening fund.59
Financial transparency: A plan that creates a diversified and sustainable funding stream is essential for the organization's financial stability.59
Monitoring and reporting: The use of digital technologies, AI-driven analytics, and precision sensors for real-time monitoring of crop health, soil, and weather can ensure precise management and impact verification.28 Satellite monitoring of changes in desert greening areas, including vegetation health and sand patterns, allows for real-time strategy adjustment.37

4. Additional Greening Methods Funded by Donations

In addition to the initial methods proposed by the user, there are a number of other desert greening techniques that could be supported by donations from middle to high-income families, complementing small-scale and large-scale efforts.

4.1 Innovative Water and Energy Solutions

Investments in advanced water management technologies are crucial.

Solar-powered desalination: Solar units can produce fresh water from saline or brackish water, opening up new arid regions for sustainable agriculture.28 These systems can be integrated with drip irrigation and water recycling to maximize efficiency.28
Fog water harvesting: Using fog nets to condense atmospheric moisture is an innovative water harvesting technique, suitable for certain desert microclimates.28
Renewable energy integration: Solar projects in desert areas, such as those in the Kubuqi Desert, not only generate clean energy but also help stabilize the landscape. The shade provided by solar panels reduces the harsh impact of the sun on the soil, creating more favorable conditions for vegetation growth and reducing wind speed at ground level, preventing sand dune movement.5 Donations could fund the installation of small-scale solar panels in adopted areas, contributing to an improved microclimate and a sustainable energy source.

4.2 Advanced Soil and Ecosystem Restoration Techniques

To accelerate soil transformation and support biodiversity, additional techniques can be implemented.

Inoculation of biological soil crusts (biocrusts): Biocrusts, communities of mosses, lichens, and cyanobacteria, play a vital role in soil stabilization and fertility in arid ecosystems.60 Cultivating and inoculating them can contribute to the restoration of degraded soils, although stressful abiotic conditions can pose a challenge.60 Donations could support research and development of biocrust inoculants adapted to Gobi conditions.
Seed enhancement technologies (SETs): These include seed priming, seed coating, and seed scarification, which can improve germination and plant development under unfavorable environmental conditions, such as high temperatures, soil salinity, and water scarcity.16 Donations could fund the development and application of SETs for native Gobi species.
Agroforestry and permaculture: These approaches integrate trees and shrubs with agricultural crops and animal husbandry, creating productive and resilient systems. Permaculture, in particular, focuses on soil building, wise water use (e.g., swales to capture rainwater), mulching to retain moisture, and recycling organic matter for compost.61 Projects like "Greening the Desert" in the Jordan Valley have demonstrated the transformation of degraded soils into vibrant "food forests" through permaculture practices.61 Donations could fund permaculture training and the implementation of such small-scale systems in adopted areas.
Terracing and contour trenches: In sloped areas, building terraces slows water runoff and prevents erosion, allowing water to infiltrate the soil.17 Contour trenches, long, deep ditches parallel to the landscape's elevation lines, also prevent erosion and retain water, and can be reinforced with stone walls.4

4.3 Promoting Biodiversity and Healthy Ecosystems

Desert restoration is not just about planting trees, but also about restoring ecological balance.

Reintroduction of native species: Focusing on planting mixtures of indigenous plants is crucial for the biological and ecological integrity of the region.1 Research at Oyu Tolgoi University in Mongolia has demonstrated the success of propagating and planting over 200,000 seedlings from 34 native Gobi species.34 Donations could support native plant propagation centers and species reintroduction programs.
Biodiversity conservation: The project could contribute to biodiversity conservation by creating habitats for desert fauna and supporting endangered species.27 This includes not only flora but also fauna, ensuring that animal introductions, such as rabbits, are managed with a deep understanding of the ecological impact.27

4.4 Education and Community Awareness

Donations can support education and awareness programs, essential for long-term community involvement.

Environmental education programs: In Ethiopia, the "Green Schools" program involves schools in tree planting and environmental conservation activities, raising awareness among the younger generation.10 Similarly, donations can fund workshops and educational materials for adopting families and local communities in the Gobi.
Citizen science: Engaging the public in data collection and monitoring project progress can enhance engagement and generate valuable research data. Citizen science programs can be funded by donations, allowing citizens to contribute to the understanding of Earth systems.63

5. Conclusions and Recommendations

The "adopt-a-hectare" proposal for greening the Gobi Desert, presented to Tsinghua University, represents an innovative and multi-faceted approach that combines community involvement with science-based ecological restoration strategies. This initiative has the potential to generate significant ecological and socio-economic benefits, transforming degraded landscapes and creating models for sustainable development.

Key Conclusions:

Synergy between Community and Large-Scale Efforts: Gobi desertification is a complex challenge, requiring both massive governmental interventions, such as China's Great Green Wall, and local, community-led initiatives.5 The "adopt-a-hectare" model complements existing efforts, providing a platform for direct citizen involvement and a decentralized funding source, essential for long-term sustainability.
Importance of Integrated Approaches: Successful desert greening is not limited to tree planting; it depends on a holistic approach that includes soil improvement (composting, vermicomposting), efficient water management (rainwater harvesting, precision irrigation, solar desalination), and strategic species selection (drought-resistant plants, ecological role of rabbits).4 Each element supports the others, creating a more resilient ecosystem.
Potential for Innovation and Research: Tsinghua University, with its leading expertise in environmental science and ecological engineering, is the ideal partner to scientifically validate and optimize this model.6 The project offers ample opportunities for research in areas such as species adaptation, water efficiency, soil biotechnology, and ecosystem monitoring through advanced technologies.
Direct Socio-Economic Benefits: The monthly subscription mechanism and direct family involvement will generate local jobs, increasing incomes and social stability in affected regions.40 This transforms conservation efforts into drivers of economic development, strengthening community engagement.
Need for Cross-Border Cooperation and Legal Framework: As the Gobi is a transboundary desert, the long-term success of the project depends on strong cooperation between China and Mongolia, including clear agreements on land management and accountability mechanisms.50 A transparent legal framework and grievance mechanisms are essential to ensure fairness and effectiveness.

Recommendations:

Pilot Phase and Rigorous Scientific Evaluation: It is recommended to initiate a pilot phase of the "Adopt a Hectare" project in a delimited area of the Gobi Desert, under the supervision of Tsinghua University. This phase should include a rigorous scientific evaluation of all proposed methods, especially the introduction of rabbits, to ensure that selected species are ecologically appropriate and do not become invasive.27
Development of a Community Governance Framework: Develop a detailed governance framework for the "adopt-a-hectare" model, clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of adopting families, local communities, and management entities. This framework should include mechanisms for financial transparency and grievance resolution.58
Maximizing Technological Synergies: Fully integrate advanced water solutions (precision irrigation, solar desalination, rainwater harvesting) and satellite monitoring and artificial intelligence technologies to optimize resource use and evaluate progress in real-time.28
Exploring Diversified Funding Mechanisms: In addition to monthly subscriptions, it is recommended to develop a fundraising strategy that includes crowdfunding campaigns, micro-donations, and partnerships with corporate and individual sponsors, leveraging broad public interest in environmental projects.43
Promoting Active Cross-Border Cooperation: Tsinghua University, in collaboration with research institutions and governments in Mongolia, should initiate dialogues to establish a framework for cross-border cooperation for Gobi Desert management. This could include sharing best practices, joint research, and developing harmonized policies for combating desertification at the regional level.51

By adopting these recommendations, the "Adopt a Hectare" project can become an exemplary model of community-led ecological restoration, demonstrating that, through science, innovation, and human involvement, deserts can be transformed into green oases, contributing to a more sustainable future for the Gobi region and the entire planet.

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Desert Farming Technology: 7 Powerful Innovations For 2025 - Farmonaut, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://farmonaut.com/precision-farming/desert-farming-technology-7-powerful-innovations-for-2025
What Farming Method is Effective for Dry and Desert Areas - Drip Irrigation, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://ksnmdrip.com/blogs/farming-method-is-effective-for-dry-and-desert-areas
5. Water harvesting techniques - Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.fao.org/4/u3160e/u3160e07.htm
China Launched A Mega Project Using 1 Million Rabbits — The Results Are Unreal, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNpwrauuz4I
Everybody Laughed When China Unleashed A Million Rabbits... What Happened Next Changed Everything! - YouTube, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bz02gAjTYo
Recovery: Evicting Rabbits - Cool Green Science - The Nature Conservancy, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://blog.nature.org/2018/02/26/recovery-evicting-rabbits/
Land rehabilitation in arid Gobi Desert environment using native plant species, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/353852578_Land_rehabilitation_in_arid_Gobi_Desert_environment_using_native_plant_species
Cape hare - Wikipedia, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_hare
Native lagomorphs facilitate noxious weeds in a semi-arid rangeland - Frontiers, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/ecology-and-evolution/articles/10.3389/fevo.2023.1237755/full
China's Secret Desert Experiment: Rabbits Versus Sand - YouTube, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDa-t7RLxsU
Adopt a Plot | Nature restoration - National Trust, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/support-us/adopt-a-plot
Adopt -A -Plot - Welcome to Doraville GA, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.doravillega.us/services/parks,_recreation,_and_cultural_affairs/adopt_a_plot.php
Solar power projects drive ecological restoration in North China's deserts - Chinadaily.com.cn, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202501/16/WS67889917a310f1265a1db475.html
Hesheng Afforestation: Turning Desert into Green Land Founding of the Company, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.britishcouncil.cn/sites/default/files/hesheng_afforestation_0.pdf
Permaculture Volunteer - Greening The Desert Project, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.greeningthedesertproject.org/permaculture-volunteer/
Funding Available for Community-Based Environmental Programs - fundsforNGOs, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www2.fundsforngos.org/articles-listicles/funding-available-for-community-based-environmental-programs/
CROWDFUNDING IN CHINA | Daxue Consulting, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://daxueconsulting.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Crowdfunding-market-in-China-report-by-daxue-consulting-Jiaotong-university.pdf
Friends of Nature - China Development Brief, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://chinadevelopmentbrief.org/ngos/friends-of-nature-2/
Small Grants Programme | United Nations Development Programme, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.undp.org/china/projects/small-grants-programme
16 Brands Doing Corporate Social Responsibility Successfully - Digital Marketing Institute, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://digitalmarketinginstitute.com/blog/corporate-16-brands-doing-corporate-social-responsibility-successfully
Adopt-a-Tree - Miami-Dade County, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.miamidade.gov/adopt-a-tree/
Become a Sponsor - Solana Center, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://solanacenter.org/become-a-sponsor/
China–Mongolia border - Wikipedia, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China%E2%80%93Mongolia_border
Transboundary hazard risk: the Gobi desert paradigm - IDEAS/RePEc, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://ideas.repec.org/a/spr/nathaz/v72y2014i2p533-548.html
Hazard-human interaction in the Gobi Desert - The British Academy, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/documents/785/BAR24-17-Sternberg.pdf
Transboundary hazard risk: The Gobi desert paradigm - ResearchGate, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/262572295_Transboundary_hazard_risk_The_Gobi_desert_paradigm
SUSTAINABLE LAND MANAGEMENT AND RESTORATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA REGION - World Bank Documents and Reports, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/558421576490422546/pdf/Sustainable-Land-Management-and-Restoration-in-the-Middle-East-and-North-Africa-Region-Issues-Challenges-and-Recommendations.pdf
Mongolia-People's Republic of China Joint Border Commission Agrees on Infrastructure and Security Priorities - Montsame.mn, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://montsame.mn/en/read/371942
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION LAW OF MONGOLIA - Natural Resource Governance Institute, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://resourcegovernance.org/sites/default/files/Environmental%20Protection%20Law.pdf
How China's new complaints procedures can prevent 'green' ESG investments from harming local communities - BankTrack, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.banktrack.org/blog/how_china_s_new_complaints_procedures_can_prevent_green_esg_investments_from_harming_local_communities
New mechanism could strengthen accountability of China's mining projects - Dialogue Earth, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://dialogue.earth/en/justice/safe-free-independent-getting-a-mining-grievance-mechanism-right/
Community Land Trust - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2023-04/Brownfields_CLT_FINAL.pdf
Cultivating Resilience in Dryland Soils: An Assisted Migration Approach to Biological Soil Crust Restoration - MDPI, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2607/11/10/2570
Geoff Lawton, the Man Greening the Desert! - YouTube, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYyNWja8Qdg
Environmental Funds | Definition, Types and Purpose - Carbon Collective, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing/environmental-fund
Newly Selected Citizen Science Proposals: A Peek at What's Next, accesată pe iulie 8, 2025, https://science.nasa.gov/get-involved/citizen-science/newly-selected-citizen-science-proposals-a-peek-at-whats-next/