Photo taken on Sept 20 show the root of a licorice plant is exposed to the surface. [Photo by Sun Wanming/chinadaily.com.cn]

Various sand-treatment methods invented by enterprises

Over the years, enterprises in Ordos have continued to invent and modify their methods and techniques in tackling desertification.

One of these attempts, planting licorice in a square patch, was adopted to fix the drifting sand and improve the soil. The licorice, an important traditional Chinese medicinal herb, also provides extra income for the locals.

"I couldn't imagine before that I can earn 6,000 yuan ($900) per month," Wu Zhihua, 60, a local farmer, said with excitement.

The Elion Resources Group provides targeted poverty relief for farmers like Wu, by allowing them to plant licorice on their own land. The farmers can get licorice seedlings for free, and the company would buy back the grown plants at market price.

This year, over 5,000 people are expected to benefit from the poverty relief program.