The black soil regions of China, including Inner Mongolia and Heilongjiang, are facing threats such as illegal excavation and erosion. In May 2024, the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF) offer recommendations on the “Regulations for the Protection of Black Soil in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region,” advocating for a clear definition of “black soil” and emphasizing its non-renewable nature.
As of May 2022, the area under protective cultivation of black soil in Inner Mongolia reached 14.04 million hectares. The formulation and implementation of the “Regulations for the Protection of Black Soil in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region” will be of significant importance in safeguarding the resources of black soil, promoting its sustainable utilization, maintaining ecological balance, and ensuring national food security. In April 2024, the Department of Justice of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region issued a public notice soliciting opinions on the “Regulations for the Protection of Black Soil in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (Draft for Soliciting Opinions).” Responding actively to this call, the CBCGDF’s BCON working group organized thorough research and hereby presents the following recommendations:
.jpg)
©CBCGDF Volunteers
1. Although the draft solicits opinions on the definition of “black soil,” it lacks a clear definition of “black soil” itself. It is recommended to add a separate clause defining black soil.
2. The definition of “black soil” should explicitly state: “Black soil is a precious non-renewable soil resource.”
3. It is suggested to include an analysis of the current threats and driving factors faced by black soil in the definition, as only by identifying the threats can targeted protection measures be implemented effectively.
4. Clear objectives for the protection of black soil should be outlined, including indicators such as quantity, quality, and ecological environment, along with phased targets and implementation pathways.
5. It is recommended to include “peat soil” (peat soil) within the scope of protection under laws and regulations for the protection of black soil. Peat soil, also known as peat, is a brown or black soil containing a large amount of organic matter formed during the development of marshes. Over the past decade, peat soil has been extensively transported from the northern and northeastern regions to places like Shandong as “topsoil” by illegal elements.
6. Article 24 should specify the methods and criteria for scientifically zoning black soil, along with strengthening dynamic monitoring and evaluation of zoning results, which is particularly crucial.
7. It is suggested to promote the application of more scientifically effective techniques for black soil protection, such as precision agriculture, microbial preparations, and biochar, as outlined in Article 29.
8. Establishment of a “Black Soil Stewardship” (Master) is recommended, with clear designation of the primary responsible person, who will bear responsibility for the reduction of black soil within the region.
9. It is recommended to conduct biodiversity surveys of black soil areas to provide scientific evidence in support of black soil conservation efforts.
.jpg)
©CBCGDF Volunteers
[Text of the Draft see:]
(This article is a record of daily work for reference ONLY.)
Reported by Linda Wong
Editor: Samantha
Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776
Do you know? We rely on crowd-funding and donations. You have the opportunity to help an international movement to advance biodiversity conservation. Donate TODAY to power up the movement to make it a better world for all life.
Donation(501C3)Paypal: intl@wbag.org
https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=2EYYJJZ8CGPL
cbcgdf.wordpress.com 
