Facing Desertification, Man’s Campaign Draws 30,000 Volunteers to Plant 1 Million Trees in his County — 2026-05-26

## Short Segments Prison phone calls are becoming free, and the impact is significant. A new report reveals that making calls free in several state prison systems and county jails has saved incarcerated people and their families over $622 million. This change has particularly benefited Black and brown families, who are disproportionately represented in the incarcerated population. The report highlights that call volume has increased dramatically, with daily use per person rising from about 25 minutes to nearly 45 minutes in prisons. This shift underscores the importance of maintaining family connections during incarceration, which can reduce harm and aid in rehabilitation. ## Feature Story In northwest China's Gansu province, a remarkable grassroots effort is taking root against the encroaching desert. Minqin County, situated between two of China's largest deserts, has become a focal point in the fight against desertification. Thanks to a viral social media campaign, "Plant a Tree in Minqin," over 30,000 volunteers have traveled to this remote area to plant more than one million trees. This initiative, spearheaded by 27-year-old Zhong Lin, aims to protect farming areas and water sources by cultivating drought-resistant tree species. Zhong Lin, who spends most of his year working in the desert, has inspired a massive mobilization. Volunteers from across China have joined the effort, traveling at their own expense to participate in this ecological restoration. The campaign has not only drawn attention to the environmental challenges faced by Minqin County but also highlighted the power of collective action in addressing such issues. Desertification poses a significant threat to Minqin, as it lies between the Badain Jaran and Tengger deserts. The region's vulnerability has made it a critical area for environmental intervention. The planting of drought-resistant species, such as saxual trees, is a strategic move to combat the advancing sands and preserve the local ecosystem. The success of the "Plant a Tree in Minqin" campaign demonstrates the potential of social media to galvanize support for environmental causes. It also underscores the importance of community involvement in tackling large-scale ecological challenges. As the trees take root, they offer a glimmer of hope for the future of Minqin County and its residents. Looking ahead, the continued engagement of volunteers and the sustained growth of the newly planted trees will be crucial in determining the long-term impact of this initiative. The campaign serves as a model for other regions facing similar environmental threats, showcasing how local action can lead to meaningful change. As Minqin County continues its battle against desertification, the story of Zhong Lin and the thousands of volunteers stands as a testament to the power of human determination and the potential for positive environmental transformation.