Ørkenforringelse

Ørkenforringelse, also known as desertification, is a type of land degradation in drylands. It occurs when fertile land becomes desert. This is typically a result of drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture. Desertification is a global environmental problem affecting arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas. It is a complex process that can be driven by both natural factors and human activities.

The primary natural cause is climate change, which can lead to prolonged periods of reduced rainfall and increased temperatures. Human activities that contribute to desertification include overgrazing by livestock, which depletes vegetation cover and compacts the soil, making it more susceptible to erosion. Unsustainable farming practices, such as intensive cultivation without adequate soil conservation measures, can also degrade the land. Deforestation, often for fuel or agricultural expansion, removes trees that stabilize soil and retain moisture.

The consequences of desertification are far-reaching. It leads to a loss of biodiversity, reduced agricultural productivity, and increased poverty for communities that depend on the land. Water scarcity intensifies, and soil erosion can lead to dust storms that affect air quality and human health. Efforts to combat desertification involve sustainable land management practices, such as afforestation, improved irrigation techniques, and soil conservation measures. International cooperation and policy interventions are crucial to address this widespread environmental challenge.