3rd July 2024 (9 Topics)
90% of Earth’s land could be degraded by 2050: UNESCO
Context
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) issued a stark warning, stating that a staggering 90 per cent of the planet’s land surface could be degraded by 2050. According to the World Atlas of Desertification, 75 per cent of soils are already degraded, directly affecting 3.2 billion people. If business as usual continues, the current trend may increase the impact to 90 per cent by 2050.
Causes of Land Degradation
Land degradation is the deterioration of land quality, often resulting from human activities and natural processes, which adversely affect its productivity and ecosystem functions. Several factors contribute to land degradation:
- Deforestation: Clearing of forests reduces vegetation cover and disrupts ecosystems.
- Overgrazing: Excessive grazing by livestock leads to soil compaction and loss of vegetation.
- Unsustainable Land Use: Practices like intensive agriculture without proper soil conservation measures degrade land fertility.
- Urbanization and Industrial Expansion: Conversion of natural landscapes for urban and industrial purposes reduces vegetative cover and disrupts ecosystems.
Impacts of Land Degradation
The consequences of land degradation are widespread:
- Loss of Soil Fertility: Reduced capacity of soil to support plant growth and agriculture.
- Erosion: Soil erosion accelerates, leading to loss of fertile topsoil.
- Ecosystem Destruction: Disruption of natural habitats and loss of biodiversity.
- Economic Loss: Decline in agricultural productivity and increased costs for land restoration.
- Climate Impact: Contributes to climate change through reduced carbon sequestration and altered water cycles.
- Health Effects: Impacts human health through food insecurity and water scarcity.
Fact Box:Government Initiatives in India
Combatting Desertification
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PYQ Q: The process of desertification does not have climate boundaries. Justify with examples. (2020) |
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