NEWS

Jiuquan/Beijing, September 22, Volkswagen Group China’s Green Belt project has successfully completed its afforestation initiative in Jinta County, Jiuquan City, Gansu Province. As of September, 2023, the project had planted 850,000 trees at major erosion control sites in Jinta County. As a result, it has restored 4 million square meters of barren semi-desertified land. The project has demonstrated a sustainable approach to afforestation and desertification control in northern China, improving the local ecosystem and creating economic benefits for the local community. Ultimately 120,000 Jinta residents plus 20,000 more living downstream along the Heihe River will benefit directly from this initiative.  

Catherine Peng, Vice President, Head of PR, Communications & CSR of Volkswagen Group China, said: " Volkswagen Group China has always adhered to an 'in China, for China' strategy. An important part of this is actively fulfilling its societal and environmental responsibilities. The Green Belt project is yet another example of our dedication to being a responsible corporate citizen. It has helped 240,000 people over three years while having long-term positive downstream effects on local ecosystems. Moving forward, we'll continue to strengthen our social and environmental efforts in further support of China’s sustainable development."

Dr. Miao Guangping, Deputy Secretary-General of the China Green Foundation (CGF) stated: "The CGF actively advocates for the implementation of the 'One Trillion Trees Initiative - China Action,' engaging in afforestation and ecological protection to address challenges like climate change and ecological degradation. The Green Belt afforestation project is committed to restoring ecosystems in ecologically fragile regions in northern and northwestern China, aligning well with the current focal areas of afforestation and ecological restoration in our country. We are highly gratified by the substantial accomplishments of this Project over the past three years. This not only reflects the sense of social responsibility of Volkswagen Group China and its brands but also serves as a compelling example for more enterprises, organizations, and the public to engage in environmental conservation."

After conducting extensive research and consulting with experts in Jinta County, the project chose to plant locally viable species like the Euphrates poplar, the Russian olive tree, the white saxaul, and the nitre bush. These native species will help curb the expansion of desertification and keep the Heihe River ecosystem healthy and resilient. As a welcome bonus, these plants will also support the local economy. As they mature into fully-grown forests, they will facilitate the cultivation of valuable traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, striking a delicate balance between commerce and conservation. Additionally, the project will collaborate with the Institute of Desertification Studies of the Chinese Academy of Forestry to conduct scientific research, providing further support for the long-term desertification control efforts in the local areas.  

Supported by the China Green Foundation, Volkswagen Group China, along with Volkswagen Brand, Audi, and ŠKODA, launched the Green Belt afforestation project in 2021. The project aims to improve the living environment, support local development, and boost rural revitalization by combatting severe ecological challenges like soil erosion, desertification, and loss of biodiversity. Between 2021 to 2030, the project has plans to plant 8.5 million locally suitable trees in 10 ecologically fragile areas in northern China. The total planted area is expected to cover 40 million square meters, nearly twice the size of Volkswagen Group’s industrial footprint in China. So far, the project has made a difference in Gulang and Jinta Counties in Gansu Province and Huzhu County in Qinghai Province by planting 2.55 million trees across a total area of 12 million square meters. Next year, the Green Belt project will continue its afforestation efforts in Bayannur, Inner Mongolia. 

Volkswagen Group China remains committed to its vision of contributing to the sustainable development of Chinese society. Looking further ahead, the public can expect to see more progress in the Group’s 10-year plan for a greener future. This will have a positive impact on local people and the environment for generations to come.  

The Green Belt afforestation project has successfully completed its afforestation initiative in Jiuquan, Gansu Province, planting 850,000 locally suitable trees within an area of 4 million square meters

Representatives from Volkswagen Group China, China Green Foundation and local Forestry and Grassland Bureau attended the unveiling ceremony

Before/After of the shrub afforestation site in Jinta County, Jiuquan City, Gansu Province

Before/After of the tree afforestation site in Jinta County, Jiuquan City, Gansu Province