Yin Yuzhen recognized by FAO for desertification combat

Yin Yuzhen, a pioneer in the fight against desertification in China, has been named one of the ‘100 heroes of agri-food systems and rural development’ by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The recognition follows a global initiative inaugurated by the FAO on October 15.

Yin, who resides in the Mu Us desert within the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, has dedicated decades to transforming the arid landscape. After moving to the area in 1985, she and her husband committed to reforestation efforts despite harsh living conditions and extreme sandstorms. Her work has been supported internationally, including by retired American teacher Ronald Sakolsky, who contributed funds to her reforestation projects decades ago.

The Mu Us desert is one of China's four major sandy areas, spanning Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi, and the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.