Archive - John Novis Photography

Giant Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi'an

The Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is a Buddhist pagoda located in southern China. It was built in 652 during the Tang Dynasty. Xi'an is the eastern terminus of the ancient Silk Road, which allowed links between China and the West to flourish.

Monument at the Start of Silk Road

The monument that marks the start of Silk Road. Xi'an is the eastern terminus of the ancient Silk Road, which allowed links between China and the West to flourish.

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Arriving by minibus along the Silk road to Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Arriving by minibus along the Silk road to Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Arriving by minibus along the Silk road to Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

18/08/2009

Ancient Buddhist centre - Mogaoku

The Thousand Buddha Caves in the oasis city of Dunhuang on the ancient Silk Road are a museum of religion and art. Known as Mogaoku in Chinese, they are on the UNESCO list of World Cultural Heritage.

Dunhuang, located at the far western end of the Hexi Corridor in Gansu Province, is an oasis surrounded by desert. The total area of Dunhuang is 31,200 square kilometres, but only 1,400 square kilometres have habitable living conditions.

The city, home to the world-renowned Mogao Grottoes in Northwest China's Gansu Province is taking steps to halt increasing desertification.

The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

Ancient Buddhist centre - Mogaoku

The Thousand Buddha Caves in the oasis city of Dunhuang on the ancient Silk Road are a museum of religion and art. Known as Mogaoku in Chinese, they are on the UNESCO list of World Cultural Heritage.

Dunhuang, located at the far western end of the Hexi Corridor in Gansu Province, is an oasis surrounded by desert. The total area of Dunhuang is 31,200 square kilometres, but only 1,400 square kilometres have habitable living conditions.

The city, home to the world-renowned Mogao Grottoes in Northwest China's Gansu Province is taking steps to halt increasing desertification.

The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

Tang Dynasty Ruin Along Silk Road

A Tang Dynasty ruin built along the Silk Road now sits by a river disappearing as a result of severe drought in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and econom

Tang Dynasty Ruin Along Silk Road

A Tang Dynasty ruin built along the Silk Road now sits by a river disappearing as a result of severe drought in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and econom

Tang Dynasty Ruin Along Silk Road

A Tang Dynasty ruin built along the Silk Road now sits by a river disappearing as a result of severe drought in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

21/08/2009

Aibi Lake in China

Due to shrinking surface area, Xinjiang's largest salt lake, Aibi Lake, has increased the desertification of the area and subsequently transformed into one of China's major sandstorm sources. According to the Bortala Forestry Bureau, water shortages have led to the shrinkage of the Aibi Lake surface. Three rivers including the Kuytun, which previously supplied 45.8 percent of the Aibi Lake water, dried up in the 1970s. Reduced supply of river water combined with severe lack of rain, about 90 mm per year, has caused a serious imbalance between the supply of lake water and evaporation.

Aibi Lake in China

Due to shrinking surface area, Xinjiang's largest salt lake, Aibi Lake, has increased the desertification of the area and subsequently transformed into one of China's major sandstorm sources. According to the Bortala Forestry Bureau, water shortages have led to the shrinkage of the Aibi Lake surface. Three rivers including the Kuytun, which previously supplied 45.8 percent of the Aibi Lake water, dried up in the 1970s. Reduced supply of river water combined with severe lack of rain, about 90 mm per year, has caused a serious imbalance between the supply of lake water and evaporation.

Aibi Lake in China

Due to shrinking surface area, Xinjiang's largest salt lake, Aibi Lake, has increased the desertification of the area and subsequently transformed into one of China's major sandstorm sources. According to the Bortala Forestry Bureau, water shortages have led to the shrinkage of the Aibi Lake surface. Three rivers including the Kuytun, which previously supplied 45.8 percent of the Aibi Lake water, dried up in the 1970s. Reduced supply of river water combined with severe lack of rain, about 90 mm per year, has caused a serious imbalance between the supply of lake water and evaporation.

Aibi Lake in China

Due to shrinking surface area, Xinjiang's largest salt lake, Aibi Lake, has increased the desertification of the area and subsequently transformed into one of China's major sandstorm sources. According to the Bortala Forestry Bureau, water shortages have led to the shrinkage of the Aibi Lake surface. Three rivers including the Kuytun, which previously supplied 45.8 percent of the Aibi Lake water, dried up in the 1970s. Reduced supply of river water combined with severe lack of rain, about 90 mm per year, has caused a serious imbalance between the supply of lake water and evaporation.

Aibi Lake in China

Due to shrinking surface area, Xinjiang's largest salt lake, Aibi Lake, has increased the desertification of the area and subsequently transformed into one of China's major sandstorm sources. According to the Bortala Forestry Bureau, water shortages have led to the shrinkage of the Aibi Lake surface. Three rivers including the Kuytun, which previously supplied 45.8 percent of the Aibi Lake water, dried up in the 1970s. Reduced supply of river water combined with severe lack of rain, about 90 mm per year, has caused a serious imbalance between the supply of lake water and evaporation.

Aibi Lake in China

Due to shrinking surface area, Xinjiang's largest salt lake, Aibi Lake, has increased the desertification of the area and subsequently transformed into one of China's major sandstorm sources. According to the Bortala Forestry Bureau, water shortages have led to the shrinkage of the Aibi Lake surface. Three rivers including the Kuytun, which previously supplied 45.8 percent of the Aibi Lake water, dried up in the 1970s. Reduced supply of river water combined with severe lack of rain, about 90 mm per year, has caused a serious imbalance between the supply of lake water and evaporation.

Aibi Lake in China

Due to shrinking surface area, Xinjiang's largest salt lake, Aibi Lake, has increased the desertification of the area and subsequently transformed into one of China's major sandstorm sources. According to the Bortala Forestry Bureau, water shortages have led to the shrinkage of the Aibi Lake surface. Three rivers including the Kuytun, which previously supplied 45.8 percent of the Aibi Lake water, dried up in the 1970s. Reduced supply of river water combined with severe lack of rain, about 90 mm per year, has caused a serious imbalance between the supply of lake water and evaporation.

Aibi Lake in China

Due to shrinking surface area, Xinjiang's largest salt lake, Aibi Lake, has increased the desertification of the area and subsequently transformed into one of China's major sandstorm sources. According to the Bortala Forestry Bureau, water shortages have led to the shrinkage of the Aibi Lake surface. Three rivers including the Kuytun, which previously supplied 45.8 percent of the Aibi Lake water, dried up in the 1970s. Reduced supply of river water combined with severe lack of rain, about 90 mm per year, has caused a serious imbalance between the supply of lake water and evaporation.

Aibi Lake in China

Due to shrinking surface area, Xinjiang's largest salt lake, Aibi Lake, has increased the desertification of the area and subsequently transformed into one of China's major sandstorm sources. According to the Bortala Forestry Bureau, water shortages have led to the shrinkage of the Aibi Lake surface. Three rivers including the Kuytun, which previously supplied 45.8 percent of the Aibi Lake water, dried up in the 1970s. Reduced supply of river water combined with severe lack of rain, about 90 mm per year, has caused a serious imbalance between the supply of lake water and evaporation.

Aibi Lake in China

Due to shrinking surface area, Xinjiang's largest salt lake, Aibi Lake, has increased the desertification of the area and subsequently transformed into one of China's major sandstorm sources. According to the Bortala Forestry Bureau, water shortages have led to the shrinkage of the Aibi Lake surface. Three rivers including the Kuytun, which previously supplied 45.8 percent of the Aibi Lake water, dried up in the 1970s. Reduced supply of river water combined with severe lack of rain, about 90 mm per year, has caused a serious imbalance between the supply of lake water and evaporation.

Aibi Lake in China

Due to shrinking surface area, Xinjiang's largest salt lake, Aibi Lake, has increased the desertification of the area and subsequently transformed into one of China's major sandstorm sources. According to the Bortala Forestry Bureau, water shortages have led to the shrinkage of the Aibi Lake surface. Three rivers including the Kuytun, which previously supplied 45.8 percent of the Aibi Lake water, dried up in the 1970s. Reduced supply of river water combined with severe lack of rain, about 90 mm per year, has caused a serious imbalance between the supply of lake water and evaporation.

Aibi Lake in China

Due to shrinking surface area, Xinjiang's largest salt lake, Aibi Lake, has increased the desertification of the area and subsequently transformed into one of China's major sandstorm sources. According to the Bortala Forestry Bureau, water shortages have led to the shrinkage of the Aibi Lake surface. Three rivers including the Kuytun, which previously supplied 45.8 percent of the Aibi Lake water, dried up in the 1970s. Reduced supply of river water combined with severe lack of rain, about 90 mm per year, has caused a serious imbalance between the supply of lake water and evaporation.

Yurts seen near the Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier) in the Qilianshan Mountains. Scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the Qiyi Glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.

Yurt interior seen near the Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier) in the Qilianshan Mountains. Scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the Qiyi Glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.

unregulated pollution caused by burning fossil fuels is seen along the Silk Road, Xinjiang, China

a new industrial town along the Silk Road in Xinciang

City of Dunhuang Along Silk Road

Dunhuang, located at the far western end of the Hexi Corridor in Gansu Province, is an oasis surrounded by desert. The total area of Dunhuang is 31,200 square kilometres, but only 1,400 square kilometres have habitable living conditions.The city is taking steps to halt increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

City of Dunhuang Along Silk Road

Dunhuang, located at the far western end of the Hexi Corridor in Gansu Province, is an oasis surrounded by desert. The total area of Dunhuang is 31,200 square kilometres, but only 1,400 square kilometres have habitable living conditions.The city is taking steps to halt increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

City of Dunhuang Along Silk Road

Dunhuang, located at the far western end of the Hexi Corridor in Gansu Province, is an oasis surrounded by desert. The total area of Dunhuang is 31,200 square kilometres, but only 1,400 square kilometres have habitable living conditions.The city is taking steps to halt increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

Nature Reserve Along Silk Road

A Greenpeace campaigner holds sand in her hands in the Dunhuang Yangguan National Nature Reserve. The forest was planted in 1953 to protect Dunhuang City against destructive elements of the Kumutage Desert. The desert is expanding because the local Shule River holds less water, losing its grip on its banks and giving sand a chance to roam free. Increased population, agriculture and climate change have created a problem of desertification.

Camel Riding Park Along Silk Road

Aerial view of a herd of camels from a camel riding and entertainment park located in the city of Dunhuang. The city is taking steps to halt increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

19/08/2009

Crescent Moon Spring Along the Silk Road.About 6 kilometers south of Dunhuang City, Gansu, China and surrounded by the Echoing Sand Mountain, Crescent Moon Spring is an oasis in the desert. The formation of the lake resulted from a geological peculiarity and natural wonder where the topography of the sand dunes force the incoming desert winds to spiral before finally retreating in an easterly direction. Thus, the sands do not smother the spring. The natural harmony between the spring and the dunes has attracted visitors for many years, eventually becoming a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

However since the 1970’s owing to climate change, tourism and industrialisation the lake started to shrink dramatically in size and depth. Concerned scientists and environmentalists are looking at a change in glacial melt from the distant Qilian Mountains that feeds the Dang River as likelihood for the disappearing lake.

Crescent Moon Spring Along the Silk Road.About 6 kilometers south of Dunhuang City, Gansu, China and surrounded by the Echoing Sand Mountain, Crescent Moon Spring is an oasis in the desert. The formation of the lake resulted from a geological peculiarity and natural wonder where the topography of the sand dunes force the incoming desert winds to spiral before finally retreating in an easterly direction. Thus, the sands do not smother the spring. The natural harmony between the spring and the dunes has attracted visitors for many years, eventually becoming a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

However since the 1970’s owing to climate change, tourism and industrialisation the lake started to shrink dramatically in size and depth. Concerned scientists and environmentalists are looking at a change in glacial melt from the distant Qilian Mountains that feeds the Dang River as likelihood for the disappearing lake.

City of Dunhuang Along Silk Road

Dunhuang, located at the far western end of the Hexi Corridor in Gansu Province, is an oasis surrounded by desert. The total area of Dunhuang is 31,200 square kilometres, but only 1,400 square kilometres have habitable living conditions.The city is taking steps to halt increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

Camel Riding Park Along Silk Road

A camel riding and entertainment park located in the city of Dunhuang. The city is taking steps to halt increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

19/08/2009

Camel Riding Park Along Silk Road

A camel riding and entertainment park located in the city of Dunhuang. The city is taking steps to halt increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

Camel Riding Park Along Silk Road

A camel riding and entertainment park located in the city of Dunhuang. The city is taking steps to halt increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

Camel Riding Park Along Silk Road

A camel riding and entertainment park located in the city of Dunhuang. The city is taking steps to halt increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

Camel Riding Park Along Silk Road

A camel riding and entertainment park located in the city of Dunhuang. The city is taking steps to halt increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

Camel Riding Park Along Silk Road

A camel riding and entertainment park located in the city of Dunhuang. The city is taking steps to halt increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

Camel Riding Park Along Silk Road

A camel riding and entertainment park located in the city of Dunhuang. The city is taking steps to halt increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Arriving by minibus along the Silk road to Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

Tourist buses are parked outside the Mogao Caves (also known as the Caves of the Thousand Buddhas) which form a system of 492 temples strategically located at a religious and cultural crossroads on the Silk Road. The caves contain some of the finest examples of Buddhist art and are on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. The caves lie 25 km from Dunhuang, an oasis surrounded by desert. The total area of Dunhuang is 31,200 square kilometers, but only 1,400 square kilometers have habitable living conditions because of increasing desertification. The local government in Dunhuang has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Smokestacks are visible behind the Great Wall of China near Jiuquan. Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

18/08/2009

ilk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

18/08/2009

ilk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

18/08/2009

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

Mogao Caves Along Silk Road

Ancient Buddhist centre - Mogaoku

The Thousand Buddha Caves in the oasis city of Dunhuang on the ancient Silk Road are a museum of religion and art. Known as Mogaoku in Chinese, they are on the UNESCO list of World Cultural Heritage.

Dunhuang, located at the far western end of the Hexi Corridor in Gansu Province, is an oasis surrounded by desert. The total area of Dunhuang is 31,200 square kilometres, but only 1,400 square kilometres have habitable living conditions.

The city, home to the world-renowned Mogao Grottoes in Northwest China's Gansu Province is taking steps to halt increasing desertification.

The local government in Dunhuang, a county-level city, has launched a range of water-saving measures to try to tackle the problem.

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

ilk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

18/08/2009

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Smokestacks are visible behind the Great Wall of China near Jiuquan. Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

ilk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

18/08/2009

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall of China. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

Local man with archive picture of Crescent Moon Spring showing how the lake has deceased over a period of years

A Greenpeace campaigner holds sand in her hands in the Dunhuang Yangguan National Nature Reserve. The forest was planted in 1953 to protect Dunhuang City against destructive elements of the Kumutage Desert. The desert is expanding because the local Shule River holds less water, losing its grip on its banks and giving sand a chance to roam free. Increased population, agriculture and climate change have created a problem of desertification.

Portrait of a worker at a wind farm in Guazhou. The wind farm brings new 'green' jobs' to the region. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

An elderly woman in her kitchen with Mao Tse-Tung picture on the wall in the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Linang Jun Qin, age 72,i n her one room home carved out of the sandstone, a typical dwelling for local people in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

A mother stands holding her 2 children in the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Ma Delan, aged 62, stands holding her grandchild. The land in her small village of Nanping is left fallow because of dry earth and drought conditions. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Li Shang Mei is the mother of 2 children who left her village and became migrant workers.

A mother stands holding her 2 children in the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Wang Wan Yi, age 76, sits inside his home where he lives with his wife in one room carved out of the sandstone, a typical dwelling for local people in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

1.Local drivers and guides at a Xinjiang chicken restaurant village

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

House exterior in the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

House interior in the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

House interior in the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

School room in the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Smokestacks are visible close to the Great Wall of China near Jiuquan. Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

Silk Road Crosses the Great Wall

Smokestacks are visible close to the Great Wall of China near Jiuquan. Jiayu Pass, lying to the west of Jiuquan, is the western starting point of the existing Great Wall. The pass was a significant defense system to keep away enemies coming from west, and an indispensable stopping station of the ancient Silk Road.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

13/08/2009

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Linang Jun Qin, age 72,i n her one room home carved out of the sandstone, a typical dwelling for local people in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Wang Wan Yi, age 76, sits inside his home where he lives with his wife in one room carved out of the sandstone, a typical dwelling for local people in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

14/08/2009

Wang Wan Yi, age 76, sits inside his home where he lives with his wife in one room carved out of the sandstone, a typical dwelling for local people in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Liang Jun Qin, age 72, prepares a fire to cook noodles for lunch. She lives with her husband in one room carved out of the sandstone, a typical dwelling for local people in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

14/08/2009

Linang Jun Qin, age 72,lights a fire to cook food in her one room home carved out of the sandstone, a typical dwelling for local people in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Wang Wan Yi, age 76, adjusts the sunlight point on a solar device used to boil his kettle. He lives with his wife in one room carved out of the sandstone, a typical dwelling for local people in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

14/08/2009

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Wang Wan Yi, age 76, and Linang Jun Qin, age 72, eat noodles in their one room home carved out of the sandstone, a typical dwelling for local people in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

14/08/2009

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

A mother stands holding her 2 children in the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

13/08/2009

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

A mother stands holding her 2 children in the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

A woman rakes grass in the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road. Nanping is threatened by drought, one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

13/08/2009

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

13/08/2009

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Landscape surrounding the small village of Nanping along the route of the Silk Road, which is threatened by drought. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Drought Affected Village Along Silk Road

Ding Cheng Quan, director of Nanping village,stands beside a well in his small village. He fears the water shortage and drought will leave the village with no drinking or crop water. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

13/08/2009

Li Shang Mei is the mother of 2 children who left her village and became migrant workers. She waters melons to make a living however available well water is decreasing fast because of frequent droughts. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Ma Bao Zhen, age 45, transfers water from the central pump into a tank in the back of his truck. The pump is located 5km from his home. It costs him 18 yuan for 2 cubic liters. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Wang Zhi Ping, age 46, travels with his mule to get fresh drinking water. The journey is 4 hours round trip from his home in Zhai Ke Village. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Ma Bao Zhen, age 45, transfers water from the central pump into a tank in the back of his truck. The pump is located 5km from his home. It costs him 18 yuan for 2 cubic liters. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Linang Jun Qin, age 72,i n her one room home carved out of the sandstone, a typical dwelling for local people in the region. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Water Shortage Along the Silk Road

Wang Zhi Ping, age 46, travels with his mule to get fresh drinking water. The journey is 4 hours round trip from his home in Zhai Ke Village. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

14/08/2009

Wang Zhi Ping, age 46, travels with his mule to get fresh drinking water. The journey is 4 hours round trip from his home in Zhai Ke Village. Drought is one of the most harmful natural hazards in Northwest China. Climate change has a significant impact on China's environment and economy.

Wind Farm Along Silk Road

Da Ban Cheng wind farm is one of the largest wind farms in China with a total of 200 wind turbines. The wind farm brings new 'green' jobs' to the region. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

A wedding photo shoot at a wind farm in Guazhou brings new 'green' jobs' to the region. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

A wind farm in Guazhou brings new 'green' jobs' to the region. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

A Greenpeace campaigner stands with arms outstretched inside part of a wind turbine at the Jiu Quan wind turbine factory. The factory brings new 'green' jobs' to the Gansu province. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

A wind farm in Guazhou brings new 'green' jobs' to the region. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

Wind Turbine Factory Along the Silk Road

A worker stands in front of wind turbines that are being built at the Jiu Quan wind turbine factory. The factory brings new 'green' jobs' to the Gansu province. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

17/08/2009

A billboard advertises a wind farm in Guazhou that brings new 'green' jobs' to the region. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

A wind farm in Guazhou brings new 'green' jobs' to the region. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

Portrait of workers at a wind farm in Guazhou. The wind farm brings new 'green' jobs' to the region. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

18/08/2009

A wind farm in Guazhou brings new 'green' jobs' to the region. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

Wind Turbine Factory Along the Silk Road

A Greenpeace campaigner inside a wind turbine at the Jiu Quan wind turbine factory. The factory brings new 'green' jobs' to the Gansu province. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

Wind Turbine Factory Along the Silk Road

A Greenpeace campaigner with turbines reflected in a car window at a wind turbine at the Jiu Quan wind turbine factory. The factory brings new 'green' jobs' to the Gansu province. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

Jiu Quan wind turbine factory brings new 'green' jobs' to the Gansu province. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

Wind Turbine Factory Along the Silk Road

Jiu Quan wind turbine factory brings new 'green' jobs' to the Gansu province. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

17/08/2009

Jiu Quan wind turbine factory brings new 'green' jobs' to the Gansu province. China is rapidly expanding its wind power generating capacity and has set a target for renewable energy consumption of 40 percent of the market by the year 2050.

The Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier) in the Qilianshan Mountains. Scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the Qiyi Glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.

Nature Reserve Along Silk Road

The landscape within the Dunhuang Yangguan National Nature Reserve is affected by desertification. The forest was planted in 1953 to protect Dunhuang City against destructive elements of the Kumutage Desert. The desert is expanding because the local Shule River holds less water, losing its grip on its banks and giving sand a chance to roam free. Increased population, agriculture and climate change have created a problem of desertification.

20/08/2009

Nature Reserve Along Silk Road

The landscape within the Dunhuang Yangguan National Nature Reserve is affected by desertification. The forest was planted in 1953 to protect Dunhuang City against destructive elements of the Kumutage Desert. The desert is expanding because the local Shule River holds less water, losing its grip on its banks and giving sand a chance to roam free. Increased population, agriculture and climate change have created a problem of desertification.

A Chinese flag flies outside the research station at Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier) in the Qilianshan Mountains. Scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the Qiyi Glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.

Nature Reserve Along Silk Road

The landscape within the Dunhuang Yangguan National Nature Reserve is affected by desertification. The forest was planted in 1953 to protect Dunhuang City against destructive elements of the Kumutage Desert. The desert is expanding because the local Shule River holds less water, losing its grip on its banks and giving sand a chance to roam free. Increased population, agriculture and climate change have created a problem of desertification.

Vineyard Owner on Silk Road

Wang Zhi Qiang, age 42, owns a vineyard in the Dunhuang Yangguan National Nature Reserve. He is worried about the increasing strength of the desert sand storms damaging his grapes. The forest was planted in 1953 to protect Dunhuang City against destructive elements of the Kumutage Desert. The Desert is expanding because the local Shule River holds less water, losing its grip on its banks and giving sand a chance to roam free. Increased population, agriculture and climate change have created a problem of desertification.

Qiyi Glacier Along Silk Road

Li Zhen, age 37, is a scientist working at the research station of Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier). He works at a computer inside the research station, where scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.

16/08/2009

Qiyi Glacier Along Silk Road

The Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier) in the Qilianshan Mountains. Scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the Qiyi Glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.

16/08/2009

Qiyi Glacier Along Silk Road

The Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier) in the Qilianshan Mountains. Scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the Qiyi Glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.

Urumqi No.1 Glacier in China

A Greenpeace campaigner holds an archival photo of Urumqi No.1 Glacier at the site of the current glacier to demonstrate the retreat of the glacier over a 20 years span. The rapid shrinking of No 1 Glacier, located on Tian Shan Mountains, is a clear warning of the reality of climate change. Environmental information shows that the rapid melting of the glacier will cause serious natural disasters such mud and rock slides. Also there will be a reduction in glacial runoff which will affect freshwater resources at lower regions.

24/08/2009

Qiyi Glacier Along Silk Road

The Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier) in the Qilianshan Mountains. Scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the Qiyi Glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.

16/08/2009

A Chinese flag flies outside the research station at Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier) in the Qilianshan Mountains. Scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the Qiyi Glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.

Qiyi Glacier Along Silk Road

The Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier) in the Qilianshan Mountains. Scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the Qiyi Glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.

16/08/2009

Qiyi Glacier Along Silk Road

Li Zhen, age 37, is a scientist working at the research station of Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier). Scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.

16/08/2009

Qiyi Glacier Along Silk Road

Li Zhen, age 37, is a scientist working at the research station of Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier). Scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.

Qiyi Glacier Along Silk Road

Li Zhen, age 37, is a scientist working at the research station of Qiyi Glacier (also known as July-First Glacier). Scientists have used radar to measure the thickness of the glacier. The research team observed that the whole glacier had been shortened by an average of 19.6 m, with the thickness at its edges reduced by at least 50 m in the past two decades.