Jia Mingxuan, a 14-year-old from Inner Mongolia, China, has captured global attention with his ingenious invention aimed at combating desertification. Using simple materials like steel tubes and recycled plastic bottles, Jia developed an automated planting tool that recently secured the gold medal at the 77th Nuremberg International Invention Exhibition (iENA) in Germany. The device, designed to help saplings survive harsh environmental conditions, stood out among over 540 sophisticated inventions from young innovators worldwide. The iENA, one of the world’s top three invention exhibitions, recognized Jia’s practical solution to a pressing environmental challenge. His invention leverages basic physical principles to collect condensation from the air, channeling it directly to the root zone of trees. This innovation emerged from Jia’s childhood experiences in Chifeng, a region heavily impacted by desertification and part of China’s Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program. Inspired by a physics lesson and his observations of steam condensing in his kitchen, Jia’s invention has already garnered support from local communities and researchers. His achievement not only highlights the potential of grassroots innovation but also underscores China’s commitment to environmental sustainability and technological advancement. Jia’s story is a testament to the power of youthful ingenuity in addressing global challenges.