Community wins UN honor for reforestation

China's Saihanba Afforestation Community was presented the top United Nations environment honor, the Champions of the Earth award, in Nairobi, Kenya, on Tuesday.

The award, given during the Third UN Environment Assembly, held Monday through Wednesday, was an honor in the Inspiration and Action category for its efforts to transform degraded land into a lush paradise.

"As we face unprecedented threats to our environment, strong leadership at all levels is more important than ever," said Erik Solheim, head of the Nairobi-based UN Environment Programme. "This year's Champions embody the commitment, vision and energy we so desperately need."