Full coverage: World Environment Day

Sunday marks the World Environment Day, and China has made major efforts in improving the environment through desert control. One of the achievements is a forest belt on the eastern edge of Ulan Buh Desert in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.

The forest belt prevents the desert from advancing eastward. It was built nearly five decades ago along the bank of the Yellow River, and is still being expanded. Currently, the belt along the river spans over 30 kilometers. Shrubs, trees, and grass suited for the intense desert climate were planted. They not only help anchor sand, but also bring economic benefits to local farmers.