Abstract
Our research group was involved in the prevention of desertification in the Inner-Mongolian autonomous district of China. We analyzed and discussed, from the perspective of group dynamics, how the contents, possibilities and directions of activity and the network of participants changed during a twenty year period (1994- 2013). Moreover, we argued, from general viewpoints, how we can develop an interlocal network among interested parties, organizations that promote environmental conservation or regional revitalization; communities where these movements are carried out with outsiders who participate in these movements.
The activity in the Inner-Mongolia area has changed over the past twenty years. In the initial stage (1995-1999), we attempted to combat desertification with agricultural development or agricultural business but this was not successful. We changed the focus of our policy and started community revitalization activities in which unstable sand dunes are greened and a circulation-type community management is developed (2000- ). In parallel, participants in the activity expanded beyond the organization that initiated the activity and came to include a human network of many people who interacted with each other. Those changes were attained step by step as the indigenous people accumulated new experiences during a twenty-year period.
Currently, the activity is in a stagnant condition (2008- ). The direct cause is because of a shortage of financial resources for the activity and an unfortunate social/economic condition of the community. But, more importantly, an underlying problem is that the residents lack an active attitude. A partnership with the residents, based on their intrinsic and active attitude to the activity, is required to move out of stagnancy. In addition, an inter-local partnership with residents in cities in China and people in Japan should be constructed so that they can contribute to the activity from diverse standpoints.
