A pilot integration and demonstration project of desertification control technologies supported by new water-retaining materials was launched on Jan 20 in Uxin Banner, Ordos.

As one of the key technology initiatives under the city's effort to build a national sustainable development innovation demonstration zone, the project focuses on desertification control and green development. It aims to achieve large-scale utilization of local coal-based solid waste and efficient reuse of mine drainage water.

Using the Mu Us Sandy Land in Uxin Banner as its trial base, the project will conduct systematic R&D on new wind-break and sand-fixation materials, as well as smart distribution and management technologies for mine drainage water. This is expected to address the long-standing issues of land occupation and pollution caused by coal-based solid waste.

Once operational, the project is expected to consume over 200,000 metric tons of coal-based solid waste and reuse more than 2 million cubic meters of mine drainage water annually. It will also help restore around 10,000 mu (667 hectares) of sandy land while saving over 1 million cu m of water resources.

The project will establish an integrated, recycling-based industrial model that combines solid-waste utilization, ecological restoration, and cash-crop cultivation. By doing so, it will not only promote the green transition of Ordos' coal industry but also enhance the city's capacity in desertification control through technological innovation.