Desertification

Desertification is the process by which land in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas loses its natural productivity due to climate change and human activities. This phenomenon is characterized by a reduction in vegetation cover, depletion of water resources, and soil erosion. Desertification does not only refer to the expansion of existing deserts but also to the acquisition of desert-like characteristics by previously productive lands.

Causes

Human Activities

Natural Factors

Affected Regions

• Türkiye: Central Anatolia (Konya-Karapınar, Tuz Gölü basin), Southeastern Anatolia (Şanlıurfa, Mardin), and the Mediterranean regions are highly vulnerable to desertification. 22.5 percent of Türkiye’s land is at high risk.
• Africa: The Sahel belt and Southern Africa face severe drought and soil degradation.
• Asia: Wind and water erosion are widespread in China, India, and the Middle East.
• Latin America: Deforestation and destruction of agricultural land occur in Brazil and Argentina.

Consequences

• Economic: Agricultural productivity declines, poverty and migration increase. The UN predicts that by 2050, up to 200 million people could be displaced.
• Ecological: Biodiversity decreases and species face extinction.
• Social: Food insecurity, water scarcity, and health problems (such as respiratory diseases due to dust storms) emerge.

Countermeasures

Sustainable Land Management

Reforestation

Social Awareness

Policies and International Cooperation

Key Data

• One third of the world’s land surface (4 billion hectares) is at risk of desertification.
• In Türkiye, desertification directly affects 22.5 million hectares.
• The annual cost of combating desertification is $2.4 billion, while the annual economic loss due to desertification amounts to $42 billion.