In Heshan County, Guangdong Province, large-scale plantations of non-native pine and eucalyptus species have greatly reduced the native, monsoon evergreen broad-leaved forests and its rich botanical diversity.

This project aims to promote and contribute towards forest restoration using native and threatened tree species.

Initial action includes stakeholder consultation workshops with local communities and authorities, especially regarding various approaches of ecological restoration. In order to raise awareness of the challenges related to forest degradation, public outreach materials were developed, including short films featuring ecological restoration approaches.

The project has now moved into the restoration phase, planting 9,000 saplings, including medicinal species, as understorey vegetation in eucalyptus and acacia plantations and 1,000 seedlings of three native tree species.

As the project continues, the ecological role and economic benefits of planting these species will be studied and monitored.