Harnessing Science to Protect Red Soil: Soil Conservation for Rural Vitalization and Green Development

In 2024, Yunnan University’s project “Harnessing Science to Protect Red Soil: Soil Conservation for Rural Vitalization and Green Development” was once again recognized by the Ministry of Education as a targeted support model project, marking the fifth consecutive year of national acknowledgement. Based in Xinping county, the initiative tackles the severe issue of red soil erosion by introducing innovative conservation techniques such as contour farming and the use of soil mats in citrus orchards, which have significantly improved land productivity and ecological resilience. 

The project exemplifies a strong government–enterprise–university alliance, combining academic expertise with local governance and industry resources to deliver sustainable solutions. Beyond technical innovations, YNU has established the Yunnan Modern Soil Conservation Academy and organized extensive training programs, empowering more than 500 farmers and practitioners with practical skills. By integrating ecological protection with rural revitalization, the initiative not only safeguards fragile ecosystems but also drives green development and economic opportunities, reinforcing YNU’s role as a leader in sustainable highland ecosystem management.

More details on the project can be found here.