June 2024: World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
This year’s Desertification and Drought Day, observed on June 17th, will spotlight the urgent need for sustainable land stewardship under the theme “United for Land: Our Legacy. Our Future.”. With up to 40% of all land worldwide already degraded, the call for action is critical. Every second, an equivalent of four football fields of healthy land is lost, totaling 100 million hectares annually. Healthy land is essential, providing 95% of our food, clothing, shelter, and livelihoods while protecting us from worsening droughts, floods, and wildfires. However, unsustainable production and consumption patterns, coupled with growing populations, are putting excessive pressure on land, leading to degradation. This drives forced migration, with millions at risk of displacement annually.
As part of the NamTip project, we are examining the drivers of desertification and its effects on the livelihoods of Namibian communal and commercial livestock farmers. Additionally, we are exploring management options to prevent tipping point phenomena, where ecosystems suddenly collapse as a result of drought and excessive land use pressure, as well as restoration measures for degraded ecosystems.
The Desertification and Drought Day, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1994, raises awareness of these issues and promotes international efforts to combat them. The UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is the only legally binding international treaty focused on land management and drought. This year's observance coincides with the 30th anniversary of the UNCCD. The global event, hosted by the German Federal Government in Bonn, will feature leaders, youth, and notable figures from various sectors, and will include a photo exhibition, educational programs, musical performances, and a social media campaign. These activities aim to engage the public and emphasize the importance of sustainable land stewardship.
To learn more about this year’s Desertification and Drought Day and participate in the events, visit: UNCCD Desertification and Drought Day 2024.
