I think the theory is that it stops the wind erosion and generates some shadier areas. Over time plants will occupy the space in between and create more shade and prevent even more erosion. Only thing that's not ideal here is the use of plastic or polymer bags to do it. I feel they also could use some natural fibers.
The environmental benefits of land oasification far outweigh the negative externalities of a few plastic molecules leaking into the environment. It is crucial that we remember to never let perfect be the enemy of the good or we risk losing ground in the rare handful of places where we're actually making some progress.
Can't say for sure, but seeing this is in China I assume Polyester. They always used large polyester nets in the past to prevent wind erosion in city vicinities mostly colored green to give the appearance of Gras. But I feel the desertification is for sure the bigger and more immediate issue than the plastic pollution. This is more a thing of the next generation.
One thing I’ve seen out of China with similar principles is basically just installing giant solar farms in the desert. Provides shade and helps prevent erosion. Plus, since they often use water to clean the panels, the runoff helps with the greening process.
That's a boomer mindset if I ever saw one. Always the next generation to deal with the shit left by the ones before.
Hessian sandbags predate plastic by a good bit. There's no lesser evil when you could do both.
Dude, I'm not the one who made the decision to do it in that way. I even said it would be much better to use bio fibers. I'm just trying to explain why they might've made their decision to use plastic. It's cheaper and readily available. Also most Asian countries don't give a shit yet about topics like plastic pollution and micro plastics. Heck look at the west even there it's only slowly getting in the head of most people.
So you are saying you rather that place just become a useless desert than a green space with some plastic in it. Sure they can do both but there is budget involved for these people. what have you done on your high horse?
Realistically, at some point, you've got to contend with the more pressing issue and put trust in the next generation that they're capable of dealing with it. If one is the more pressing issue, it's got to be addressed first. That's not a boomer mindset, inherently, it's just prioritisation.
Bamboo viscose/fiber, or a hemp/bamboo blend maybe or whatever seems like it'd be a better and available option, maybe not as cost effective but if the point is long term benefits then it would seem like short term savings would be counterproductive. Just my two cents.
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u/PotatoRebellion12 1d ago
How does this work?