China issues five-year plan for forestry, grassland conservation

BEIJING -- China has unveiled a five-year plan for forestry and grassland conservation that sets a series of national targets during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30).

China aims to increase forest coverage to 25.8 percent by 2030, raise forest stock volume to 22.4 billion cubic meters, and expand the sector's total output value to 14 trillion yuan (about $2 trillion), according to the plan issued by the National Forestry and Grassland Administration and three other government departments.

The plan also targets decisive progress in landmark projects for the national shelterbelt program in Northwest, North and Northeast China by 2030.

It outlines efforts to carry out large-scale afforestation campaigns, develop the system of protected areas, and foster and expand the forestry and grassland industry.

The plan also includes a wildlife protection project that will provide emergency rescue and early-warning monitoring for 165 critically endangered wildlife and plant species under state protection.