World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought is observed every year on June 17th to raise awareness about the risks of desertification, land degradation, and drought, and to promote actions to combat these issues. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1994 and has been observed annually ever since.

Desertification is a process where fertile land becomes degraded and arid, often as a result of human activities such as deforestation, overgrazing, and unsustainable agriculture. Drought, on the other hand, is a natural phenomenon that can exacerbate desertification and lead to water scarcity, food insecurity, and other challenges.

The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought aims to highlight the importance of sustainable land use practices and water management to prevent and combat desertification and drought. It also seeks to promote international cooperation and support for countries and communities affected by these issues.

Overall, the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought serves as an important reminder of the urgent need to address these critical environmental issues and to protect our planet’s natural resources for future generations.