Private cars called on to help residents in Gansu deserts
- Source: Global Times
- [08:38 July 28 2010]
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Private cars dominate the roads daily in Shanghai. Photo: IC
By Ni Dandan
The second leg of an environmental project that is calling on the help of private car owners to raise money for poverty-stricken residents living in the sandy deserts of northwestern Gansu Province kicked off Tuesday in the city.
The one-year initiative spearheaded in Shanghai and Beijing by The Climate Group, a London-based nongovernmental organization that aims to promote environmental protection, will use the funds to purchase sea buckthorn tree seeds, which will be planted by local farmers who will receive training on how to do the job.
"It only costs five yuan ($0.73) for a seed, which is quite cheap for car owners," said Wu Changhua, director of The Climate Group China, at a launch ceremony in Shanghai Tuesday. "But this small donation can make a big difference to people in Gansu.
"Children will be able to open their eyes wide without being bothered by excessive sands blowing at them," he said, adding that desert conditions in the province brings added hardship to the residents living in the poor and remote region of the country.
The project follows the success of similar one ran by the group last year, said Wu. The Million Forest effort resulted in the planting of 1 million sea buckthorns in Gansu last month, a month ahead of schedule.
"We trained local farmers on how to take care of the plants," he said. "This simple task has not only improved the surrounding environment of the residents, but has also allowed more than 2,500 families to earn an additional wage of 3,000 yuan ($442) per year, improving their quality of life."
Those wishing to make a contribution to the effort can do so by donating to China Green Foundation, the partner group working with The Climate Group on the project.
