Translated with AI
Land degradation costs the global economy nearly $880 billion annually, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in his message on the occasion of Desertification and Drought Day, which is celebrated on June 17.
“If something is good for the land, it is good for people and the economy,” the UN chief stressed. According to him, soil degradation and frequent droughts are causing forced displacement, exacerbating food shortages and creating serious challenges to sustainable development.
This year, the theme of the Day to Combat Desertification and Drought is: "Restore Land. Unlock Opportunity." This theme, according to Guterres, not only reflects the essence of the ongoing processes, but also serves as a call for immediate action.
The UN Secretary-General recalled that the restoration of degraded lands not only contributes to increased crop yields and conservation of water resources, but also directly affects poverty reduction, increased employment and strengthening the rights of land users, primarily women and small farmers.
“I call on governments, businesses and local communities to accelerate the implementation of global commitments to sustainable land management. Investment in land restoration, including private capital, must be increased. Action is needed now to heal the land, open up new opportunities and improve people’s lives,” Guterres said.
