ABOUT ZIMING LI
栗子明

The Loess Plateau is one of the largest loess regions in the world. It spans provinces including Shaanxi, Gansu, Ningxia, Shanxi, Henan, and Shandong, with an area of approximately 630,000 square kilometers. The name "Loess Plateau" comes from the geological feature of the region, primarily composed of yellowish loess soil. The landforms of the Loess Plateau are mainly shaped by millions of years of wind and water erosion. This area was once the bottom of a shallow sea or lake in ancient geological periods. However, with tectonic movement and climate change, the water gradually receded, exposing vast areas of yellow loess. Over time, the constant erosion from wind and water formed steep loess cliffs, gullies, and hills. Arid and semi-arid conditions, with limited precipitation and high evaporation rates, characterize the Loess Plateau climate. As a result, the vegetation in the region is relatively sparse, with grasslands, shrubs, and scattered trees covering most areas. Regarding biodiversity, the Loess Plateau is home to some unique plant and animal species, such as distinctive plant communities and the Loess Hare. The Loess Plateau is also an important agricultural region in China. Despite its infertile soil, large-scale agricultural production has been carried out on the plateau through scientific farming practices and the development of water conservancy projects. Crops such as wheat, corn, and sorghum are cultivated, while livestock such as cattle and sheep are raised. Additionally, the region is rich in mineral resources such as coal and iron ore, making it an important energy and industrial base in China. However, the Loess Plateau also faces environmental challenges. Due to unsustainable human activities and excessive development, issues such as land degradation, soil erosion, and dust storms have become increasingly severe. To protect the ecological environment of the Loess Plateau, the Chinese government has implemented various measures, including afforestation, returning farmland to forests and grasslands, and promoting soil and water conservation practices, to improve the local ecological conditions. Furthermore, the Great Wall in the desert is rich in historical and cultural heritage. On this land, you can discover ancient castles, remnants of the ancient Silk Road, and historically significant cultural sites. These historical relics bear witness to the prosperity and glory of ancient China and provide ample room for imagination and exploration.