A Mother’s Mission to Combat Desertification and Fulfill a Promise
In the arid deserts of North China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, one woman has accomplished an extraordinary feat. Yi Jiefang, a 67-year-old mother, has planted over 2 million trees in the past 12 years—a selfless mission to honor her late son’s dying wish and combat desertification.
The Heartbreaking Story Behind the Green Crusade
Yi Jiefang’s journey began with a devastating loss. In 2000, her beloved son, Yang Ruizhe, passed away at the age of 22 in a tragic traffic accident. An environmental enthusiast, Yang had dreamed of returning to China to plant trees in the desert and fight the growing issue of sandstorms.
Determined to fulfill his dream, Yi Jiefang left behind her successful career in Japan, relinquishing her permanent residency, and returned to China. She founded the NGO NPO Green Life, dedicated to tree-planting initiatives aimed at restoring the region’s fragile ecosystem.
Planting 46 Trees Every Hour: A Tireless Commitment
The scale of Yi’s commitment is staggering. To reach the milestone of 2 million trees, she had to plant an average of 46 trees every hour for 10 hours daily over 12 years. The unforgiving conditions of the Taminchagan Desert, near Tongliao city, presented extreme challenges—intense heat, scarce water, and relentless sandstorms.
Yet, Yi refused to back down. Her tireless dedication has turned barren land into thriving greenery, significantly reducing desertification and preventing further expansion of the desert.
Why Tree Planting in Inner Mongolia Matters
China faces severe desertification, with over 27% of its land affected. The rapid spread of deserts contributes to:
- Increased sandstorms, affecting major cities, including Beijing.
- Loss of arable land, impacting agriculture and food security.
- Reduced biodiversity, as ecosystems struggle to survive in extreme conditions.
The trees Yi Jiefang has planted serve as a natural shield against sandstorms, stabilizing soil, restoring biodiversity, and creating a sustainable environment for future generations.
A Legacy of Environmental Action
Despite exhausting her personal savings, Yi remains undeterred. She continues to raise awareness about the importance of afforestation and inspires countless volunteers to join her cause. Her work aligns with China’s Great Green Wall project, an ambitious effort to combat desertification through large-scale tree planting.
As climate change accelerates, initiatives like Yi’s highlight the critical role of individuals in ecological conservation. Her journey is not just a tribute to her son but a testament to the power of one person’s unwavering commitment to the planet.
Conclusion: A Story of Love, Loss, and Environmental Hope
Yi Jiefang’s inspiring story proves that even in the face of heartbreak and immense challenges, dedication and perseverance can lead to meaningful environmental change. Her efforts have not only kept her son’s memory alive but have also contributed to a greener, healthier world.
Her message is clear: one person can make a difference, and every tree planted is a step toward a better future.
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