Elion turns the Kubuqi Desert into an oasis (1)

There are few precedents from which Elion can benefit in its desertification control efforts. In more than 200 desertification control and tree planting projects, water jetting is one method of planting trees that has been tested for more than a decade. As the name suggests, water jetting washes away the sand with water; trees are then planted. As a member of the invention team, Han Meifei describes it as “a simple technology”. However, the seemingly simple method does not guarantee easy and smooth progress. How tall should the saplings be to avoid being blown down by the wind? How deep should the tree be planted to reach the source of water and stay alive? What are the most efficient tools? Everything about the process requires long-term observation and experiment.

Water jetting solves problems of both planting and irrigation, and increases the efficiency of the process and the survival rate of the plants. Han says that the method has ensured a survival rate of over 90%. Elion rewarded the invention team with a bonus of 600,000 yuan (U.S $88,000). It is worth noting that Elion has not kept the patent to itself, but shares it with all the regions in need free of charge. Since the technology may not be ideal for all regions, the process should be adjusted in accordance with local conditions. [Photo by Yang Jia]