Wind erosion research in China: past, present and future

Abstract

Wind erosion is one of the most important processes associated with land degradation and desertification in the arid, semi-arid and portions of the subhumid regions of China. The total land area experiencing wind erosion is approximately 160.74 104 km2, which is 16.7% of the national territory. Wind erosion is recognized as a great threat to land utilization and sustainable social and economic development. Documentation of wind erosion and its negative impacts in China dates back over 2000 years. Since the 1950s Chinese scientists have carried out an integrated investigation of the principal lands susceptible to wind erosion, and have undertaken many laboratory tests and field observations with respect to the stabilization and utilization of soil in desert areas. Since the late 1970s there has been an increasing concern worldwide regarding land desertification caused by climatic changes and human activities. Hence, wind erosion, one of the main processes of desertification, has attracted the attention of Chinese scientists to an even greater extent. Studies have been conducted to investigate the mechanics, causes and control techniques related to wind erosion using wind tunnel simulation tests and field observations in typical areas. Some encouraging achievements have been made. In this paper we summarize the main research results on wind erosion that have come to light in China in recent decades, and put forward some perspectives and suggestions to deal with problems in both research into and control practices of wind erosion in China.