World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought: a call to action
World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, celebrated on June 17, represents a crucial moment for us to reflect on the growing threats of desertification, a phenomenon that is turning once fertile lands into deserts, exacerbated by inappropriate land use practices and climate change. This is a call for awareness and immediate action to preserve our vital ecosystems and ensure a sustainable future.
The magnitude of the global challenge
According to the World Atlas of Desertification, more than 250 million people are directly affected by desertification, and around one billion in more than a hundred countries are at risk. These areas face significant losses of biodiversity, agricultural productivity, and drinking water, threatening poverty and population displacement.
Desertification and drought are phenomena that affect millions of people around the world, mainly in arid and semi-arid regions. Desertification occurs when fertile lands become deserts due to human activities such as deforestation, inadequate agricultural practices, and climate change. Drought, on the other hand, is the prolonged shortage of water that can cause serious environmental, social, and economic impacts.
The relationship with water and sanitation
As a scientist and CEO of SDW For All, I believe that an integrated approach combining sustainable technologies and conservation strategies is essential to combat these challenges. The efficient management of water resources and the implementation of adequate sanitation solutions are necessary to prevent land degradation and ensure the resilience of rural communities.
Efficient management of water resources
The efficient management of water resources is essential to combat desertification. This includes the implementation of rainwater harvesting and storage systems, the use of efficient irrigation technologies, and the protection of springs and watercourses. The preservation of river basins and the recovery of degraded areas are necessary actions to guarantee the availability of water, especially during periods of prolonged drought.
Sanitation solutions
Adequate sanitation is another vital component. Without access to safe sanitation systems, communities face high risks of waterborne diseases, which can compromise the population's health and productive capacity. In addition, poor sanitation can lead to the contamination of water bodies, exacerbating the scarcity of drinking water.
Technological solutions for sustainability
At SDW For All, we develop innovative technologies to promote the sustainable use of water and improve the quality of life in rural areas. One of these technologies is Aqualuz, a device that uses solar radiation to purify water in cisterns, guaranteeing drinking water for families living in drought-affected regions.
In addition, soil conservation practices, such as agroforestry and the recovery of degraded areas, are essential for maintaining soil fertility and preventing desertification. Environmental education projects and training for local communities are also key to promoting the sustainable management of natural resources.
A call to action
On this World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, governments, organizations, and individuals must join forces to implement sustainable policies and practices that can reverse the effects of desertification and mitigate the impacts of drought. Investing in innovative technologies, promoting environmental education, and empowering local communities are essential measures to ensure a more sustainable and resilient future for all.
The fight against desertification and drought is a collective responsibility. Only through collaboration and a commitment to sustainability can we protect our planet and ensure a better future for generations to come.
With gratitude,
Anna Luisa Beserra
Founder and CEO of Sustainable Development & Water For All
LinkedIn: @Anna Luisa Beserra
Instagram: @ Anna Luísa Beserra
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