Nanwan National Forest Park in Xinyang City, a "National Forest City" in Henan Province, central China. /VCG

As of 2023, the country's annual carbon sink exceeded 1.2 billion tonnes, and over 200 cities have earned the title of "National Forest City." Additionally, village greenery coverage has exceeded 32 percent, underscoring the importance of afforestation in both urban and rural areas.

China's afforestation strategies have evolved from simply increasing forest coverage to optimizing tree species selection based on scientific research. This method ensures that afforestation efforts are tailored to local climate and soil conditions, enhancing forest resilience and ecological stability. By prioritizing biodiversity, China has significantly improved forest quality, increasing its ability to absorb carbon, prevent soil erosion, and conserve water resources.

Trees in Colorado, U.S. /VCG

Tree planting day is celebrated worldwide, with different countries adopting unique traditions. In Japan, "Greenery Day" is observed on May 4 as a public holiday, encouraging nature appreciation and environmental awareness. While in the United States, each state selects its own date for Arbor Day. These global observances highlight the universal recognition of trees' critical role in environmental sustainability and reflect the shared vision of a greener future across different nations.