By 2050, 75% of the world's population will face the devastating impacts of drought, warns the World Drought Atlas
UN report highlights the profound impacts on the economy, ecosystems, and life in society.
The World Drought Atlas, launched by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), reveals an alarming future: by 2050, around 75% of the global population will face the impacts of drought. This phenomenon, exacerbated by climate change, unsustainable land use practices, and population growth, is emerging as one of the greatest socio-economic threats of the 21st century.
Climate change, environmental degradation, and unsustainable agricultural practices have accelerated the frequency and intensity of droughts in various regions. Data shows that between 2000 and 2019, more than 1.5 billion people were directly affected by drought events, with economic losses estimated at around $124 billion. Pressure on water resources is also expected to increase due to population growth, with demand for water growing exponentially in urban and agricultural areas.
The World Drought Atlas
The World Drought Atlas, developed by the UNCCD, is an essential tool for understanding and addressing the challenges caused by droughts on a global scale. It offers detailed data and analysis on the frequency, intensity, and impact of this phenomenon, serving as a guide for governments, organizations, and scientists in the creation of mitigation and adaptation strategies.
The latest edition offers a comprehensive view of the economic, environmental, and social effects of this phenomenon, highlighting how the global economy, ecosystems, and life in society are interconnected. The UN report reinforces that droughts not only affect water resources but also jeopardize food security, socio-economic development, and biodiversity, increasing inequalities and instability in various regions of the world. The study coincides with the meeting of governments in Saudi Arabia for COP16 on land degradation and desertification.
The Brazilian reality
In Brazil, the issue of drought presents an intriguing paradox. Although the country holds 12% of the planet's freshwater, millions of Brazilians still face difficulties in accessing drinking water and basic sanitation. According to the National Sanitation Information System (SNIS), around 35 million people have no access to treated water, while more than 100 million live without adequate basic sanitation.
The situation is particularly serious in the Northeast, where drought is a historical problem. Brazil's semi-arid region, which covers around 12% of the national territory and is inhabited by more than 27 million people, faces significant challenges in terms of water management. The irregularity of rainfall, combined with the lack of infrastructure, results in scenarios of extreme vulnerability, especially for rural populations. In addition, water wastage remains a major obstacle. It is estimated that around 40% of treated water in Brazil is lost due to leaks, fraud, or poor management, according to the Trata Brasil Institute.
The World Drought Atlas points to a challenging future but also presents an opportunity for essential transformations. By 2050, the projection that 75% of the world's population will face the impacts of drought calls for a global commitment to sustainable practices, technological innovation, and effective public policies. In Brazil, there is significant potential to reverse the situation by investing in efficient water management, expanding basic sanitation and combating waste. With integrated efforts, it is possible not only to mitigate the effects of drought but also to build a more resilient and just future for the most vulnerable populations.
Anna Luisa Beserra
Founder, Sustainable Development and Water for All
LinkedIn: Anna Luisa Beserra
SDW: Sustainable Development and Water for All
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