Researchers from either side are discussing ‘joint construction’ of ecological security barrier as climate change worsens desertification

The project is the latest in joint efforts to help slow the spread of desertification in the Mongolian Plateau.

With nearly 80 per cent of Mongolian land affected by degradation, the country’s battle with desertification has consequences that extend beyond its borders, posing significant challenges for the wider East Asian region.

The Gobi Desert, spanning a vast swathe of northern and northeastern China and parts of southern Mongolia, is a key source of sand and dust for sandstorms that have become increasingly severe in recent years, driven by stronger winds and growing desertification.

Inner Mongolia battles sandstorms and expanding desert by planting forest