Youyu is a county located in northwestern Shanxi province. In the early 1950s, there were only 5.3 square km of forests – a forest coverage rate of 0.3 percent. Some environmental scholars described Youyu one of the worst possible places for human habitation. For decades the local people have dedicated themselves to afforestation endeavors in a drive to improve the harsh natural conditions. Today, the local forest coverage rate has risen to 54 percent, and once-barren lands have been turned into pleasant areas of greenery.

During his inspection tour to Shanxi in June 2017, Xi Jinping talked about the spirit of the Youyu people. He praised the local officials for their commitment to governing for the public good, and for providing leadership to the local people in changing their living conditions through hard work, perseverance, resilience, and a deep respect for science.