The problem has a particularly negative impact on vulnerable and traditional communities—including farmers, Indigenous peoples, and *quilombolas* (descendants of enslaved Black people)—according to a specialized source.

  According to *Agencia Brasil*, approximately 18 percent of the national territory consists of areas susceptible to desertification.

  The affected surface area grew from 1.35 million to 1.51 million square kilometers between 2000 and 2020; while primarily concentrated in the nine Northeastern states, the phenomenon also extends to parts of Minas Gerais, Espirito Santo, Rio de Janeiro, and Mato Grosso do Sul.

  Driven by activities such as deforestation and improper agricultural practices, as well as climate variations, this degradation affects food production, water access, the economy, and rising temperatures.

  The source notes that the Caatinga—the predominant biome in Brazil’s semi-arid region—exhibits the most severe levels of soil deterioration; healthy soil in this area could otherwise contribute to climate balance.

  In response to this issue, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s government launched the “Brazilian Action Plan to Fight Desertification and Mitigate the Effects of Drought (2025–2043)”.

  The strategy coordinates environmental and social initiatives, covering water access, infrastructure, education, health, and productive inclusion.

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