On June 17, the World Day against Drought and Desertification is celebrated. This day, established by the United Nations, aims to raise awareness of the devastating effects of desertification and drought and to promote sustainable solutions to combat drought and these phenomena that affect millions of people around the world. Due to the great relationship between drought and our agricultural methods we want to take advantage of this much noted day to increase knowledge about the importance of this issue and thus improve the world in which we live.
The Importance of Combating Drought
Desertification and drought are two of the most critical environmental problems of our time. According to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), up to 40% of the earth's surface is degraded. This degradation affects the soil's ability to support life, which has serious consequences:
1. Food Production: Degraded soil reduces food production, which can lead to food shortages and increase food insecurity.
2. Economy: Land degradation and drought affect local economies, especially in regions where agriculture is one of the main sources of income.
3. Environment: Desertification contributes to the loss of biodiversity and the emission of greenhouse gases, exacerbating climate change.
4. Migrations: Every year, tens of millions of people are forced to move due to the loss of arable land and natural resources.
Methods to Combat Drought and Desertification
To address these challenges, it is essential to implement sustainable practices that help restore and maintain soil health and manage water efficiently. Here are some key actions we apply in our fields:
1. Regenerative Agriculture: This practice includes techniques such as crop rotation, direct seeding and the use of plant covers to improve soil health, increase its water-holding capacity and reduce erosion.
2. Sustainable Water Management: Implementing rainwater harvesting systems, building reservoirs and using efficient irrigation techniques, such as drip irrigation, can help conserve water and ensure its availability during periods of drought.
3. Reforestation and Afforestation: Planting trees and other plants can help stabilize soil, increase soil moisture, and reduce erosion. In addition, trees act as carbon sinks, contributing to the mitigation of climate change.
4. Education and Awareness: Promoting environmental education and raising awareness among local communities about the importance of sustainable practices is crucial to ensure their active participation in the protection of soil and water resources.
The Importance of Acting Now on World Drought Day
The celebration of the World Day against Drought and Desertification reminds us of the urgency of addressing these global problems. Collective actions, both locally and internationally, are essential to protect the earth and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. By coming together and adopting sustainable practices, we can restore soil health, protect water resources and ensure food security for all. That is why it is important that we all contribute our grain of sand using these techniques to fight the drought.
At Les Seviques, we are committed to sustainability and environmental protection. We encourage you to join us in this fight against drought and desertification by adopting practices that protect and restore our land. Together, we can make a significant difference and ensure a greener and more resilient future for all.