More than 40 per cent of China is grasslands and savannahs and much of it is in dry areas with low productivity. However, the Songnen Plain and Hulunbuir Plateau in the northeast are two of the country’s most important agricultural areas.

They are also home to hundreds of species of wild animals, plants and trees. The water systems are vital, both to provide clean water and to control floods.

However, they are being severely damaged, primarily by the overgrazing of livestock. Over 40 per cent of each area is degraded or over-salinised.

WWF is working with local communities and farmers to restore these areas, planting new grass and improving livestock management, and ensuring they can continue to benefit economically from the land.