World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
Celebrate the importance of land preservation with a focus on sustainable solutions.
- Roots
- Established by the UN in 1995
- Vibe
- Community-driven and eco-conscious
- Also on Jun 17
- World Croc Day · Global Garbage Man Day · Apple Strudel Day
- Hashtag
- #WorldDayToCombatDesertificationAndDrought
3 ways to celebrate
Save water daily
Fix a leaky faucet, shorten showers, and water plants in the cool of morning.
Plant trees together
Join a local planting event and add shade, roots, and hope to the neighborhood.
Learn and share
Look up how desertification happens and share one fact with a coworker.
Fast facts
The story
World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, observed on June 17, serves as a reminder of the pressing issues related to land degradation. This day was established by the United Nations in 1995 to raise awareness and foster action against desertification, a phenomenon affecting millions globally. The theme for this observance changes annually, focusing on various aspects of land management and environmental sustainability.
Read the full story
Desertification impacts over 1.5 billion people, often exacerbating food and water scarcity. Regions such as the Sahel in Africa and the southwestern United States face critical challenges, with severe droughts making it difficult for communities to thrive. The day aims to educate and empower individuals to take local actions that contribute to a larger global movement toward land restoration and sustainable practices.
Communities can participate by organizing tree-planting events, workshops on sustainable agriculture, and clean-up drives to restore natural habitats. Schools and local organizations are encouraged to host educational events that inform citizens about the importance of protecting our ecosystems. By fostering a sense of stewardship, we can combat the effects of desertification and create a more resilient environment.
As we observe World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, it is imperative to reflect on our collective responsibility toward the planet. Through small, consistent actions, individuals can contribute to reversing land degradation, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. Let us work together to promote practices that support healthy ecosystems and combat climate change.
Did you know?
Significant Land Loss
Over 12 million hectares lost annually due to desertification.
Global Initiative
UN's Decade for Deserts and the Fight Against Desertification (2010-2020).
Soil Degradation
Around 33% of the world's land is already degraded.
Food Security
Desertification threatens food security for millions.
Water Scarcity
Drought affects 55 million people in the U.S. annually.
Climate Connection
Climate change exacerbates desertification risks globally.
Cultural Impact
Indigenous communities often face the greatest impacts.
Around the world
Every culture celebrates a little differently.
- USNorth AmericaFacing challenges from drought and land degradation.
- AUAustraliaExperiencing severe droughts affecting agriculture.
- ZAAfricaHome to many regions suffering from desertification.
- BRSouth AmericaImpacted by deforestation and soil degradation.
- EUEuropeWorking towards sustainable land use practices.
- CNAsiaDealing with desertification and population pressures.
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