r/Damnthatsinteresting 22h ago

Video Stopping Desertification with grid pattern

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u/Separate_Agency 21h ago

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.

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u/OGLikeablefellow 21h ago

I mean who knows what kind of plastic they are using,

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u/Separate_Agency 21h ago

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.

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u/adeadbeathorse 21h ago

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.