Chinese scientist wins UN award for global desertification efforts

Lu is now attending the ongoing 16th Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in Riyadh, capital of Saudi Arabia.

As a scientist, Lu has led over 50 desertification control-related research projects, assisting China in implementing the UNCCD and providing expertise to the UNEP, the Global Environment Facility, and other international organizations at the forefront of global desertification action. This has offered best practices for mitigating desertification, land degradation, and drought through multilateral cooperation, according to the National Forestry and Grassland Administration.

"Receiving this honor, I feel the weight of responsibility on my shoulders has increased, and the duty has become stronger. This can inspire the younger generation because as long as they remember their mission and persist in innovation, they will definitely gain recognition from the international community and society. I hope that more young talents will participate in global ecological governance work," Lu said.

Lu participated in discussions on the African Great Green Wall project during COP16 in Riyadh, highlighting its alignment with China's long-standing efforts in sand control and ecological protection.

"We aim to share the successful experiences and models of the Three-North Shelterbelt Project and other ecological projects in China. We already have cooperation centers with Mongolia, Arab countries, and research centers in Central Asia, as well as forums for cooperation with Africa, all aimed at sharing China's wisdom and experiences worldwide," Lu added.