This day, which in 2025 bears the theme “Restore the Earth. Unlock Opportunities,” is an opportune occasion to remember that land degradation can be neutralized by finding solutions, with strong community participation and cooperation at all levels.

Desertification is the result of ongoing soil degradation, caused by constant deforestation, salinization, lack of water, and overexploitation of aquifers, generally caused by the various economic activities carried out by humans in different parts of the world.

Drought, on the other hand, represents a climate change or anomaly that occurs when water levels are far below what is expected in a given geographic area.

This significantly affects all species that grow and develop in those areas. Its main cause is a lack of rainfall.

According to reports, an area the size of Egypt is degraded each year, leading to biodiversity loss, increased risk of drought, and displacement of communities.

The repercussions are global: from rising food prices to instability and migration.

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