Deforestation and Reforestation

Lots of praise is circulating for China’s reforestation efforts. Before gushing over this, consider China’s current profligate coal use and her past appalling environmental record:

Massive deforestation during The Great Leap Forward, famine and loss of life.

Also, distinguish between what is seen in this “noble” effort (or PR stunt) and what is not seen*. What is not seen is the deprivation of livelihood and choice seized from the (not free) Chinese people who ultimately must pay for this effort. Could they not more wisely choose how to spend the fruit of their own labor, including voluntary tree planting?