World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought Observed Globally To Raise Awareness On Land Degradation

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought is being observed globally today. The day is observed to spread awareness about international cooperation to combat desertification and the effects of drought. It also reminds people that desertification can be effectively tackled, solutions are possible and important is participation and cooperation at all levels are important.

The theme for this year is “Rangelands: Recognise. Respect. “Restore”, which calls for greater recognition of the economic, ecological and cultural value of rangelands, respect for their traditional stewards and stronger investment in restoring degraded rangelands. Rangelands are among the world’s most extensive yet most overlooked ecosystems. Covering more than half of the Earth’s land surface, they play a vital role in food security, water cycles, biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.

Observed annually on 17th June, the 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 is a global observance dedicated to raising awareness about the urgent challenges of desertification, land degradation and drought.

The day highlights the importance of sustainable land management and serves as a powerful reminder that achieving Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) is both possible and essential for a sustainable future.

Led by the Secretariat of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, the observance calls upon governments, institutions, communities and individuals to work together to restore degraded lands, strengthen resilience to drought and safeguard the natural resources upon which life depends.

Protect the Land. Restore the Future. Together, we can build a greener, more resilient world.