World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (17 Jun)
The United Nations designated June 17 as ‘World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought’ to raise awareness of the issue and to encourage international cooperation to combat it. The day is also a reminder that desertification and drought are not just environmental issues, but also have a significant impact on the livelihoods and well-being of people around the world.
The UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) was adopted in 1994 and entered into force in 1996. The convention is the only legally binding international agreement that specifically addresses desertification and land degradation. It has been ratified by more than 190 countries and serves as a framework for action to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought.
The theme for World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 2023 is “Rising Up from Drought Together”. This theme highlights the importance of collective action to address drought and its impacts on people and ecosystems. The day is an opportunity to showcase successful solutions to drought and to inspire others to take action. It is also a reminder that we all have a role to play in ensuring that the world’s land and water resources are managed sustainably.
Here are some ways that individuals and communities can get involved in the fight against desertification and drought:
- Raise awareness of the issue and its impacts.
- Advocate for policies that promote sustainable land and water management.
- Support projects that help to restore degraded land and improve water security.
- Adopt sustainable farming practices that help to conserve soil and water.
- Reduce our consumption of resources and recycle and reuse materials whenever possible.
- Plant trees and other vegetation to help stabilize soil and reduce erosion.
- Conserve water by taking shorter showers, fixing leaky faucets, and watering our lawns less often.
By working together, we can create a world where everyone has access to the land and water resources they need to live a healthy and productive life.
Celebrating World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
The ‘World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought’, observed annually on 17th June, aims to promote public awareness about international efforts to combat desertification, land degradation, and the adverse effects of drought. Here’s how it’s celebrated around the world:
- Raising Awareness:
- Governments, NGOs, and community groups organize awareness campaigns through seminars, workshops, webinars, and social media initiatives to educate the public about the causes and consequences of desertification and drought.
- Tree Planting and Land Restoration:
- Events focused on tree planting, reforestation, and land restoration projects are held to promote the importance of vegetation in combating land degradation and enhancing biodiversity.
- Educational Initiatives:
- Schools and educational institutions conduct special lessons, presentations, and field trips to teach students about desertification, drought, and sustainable land management practices.
- Policy Dialogue and Advocacy:
- High-level policy discussions, roundtables, and conferences are organized to encourage governments, businesses, and stakeholders to adopt policies and practices that prevent land degradation and promote sustainable land management.
- Art and Cultural Expressions:
- Art exhibitions, photography competitions, and cultural performances related to the theme of desertification and drought are held to raise awareness and engage communities.
- Media Campaigns:
- Media outlets, including newspapers, radio, and television, feature special reports, interviews, and documentaries to highlight the global issues of desertification and drought.
- Community Engagement:
- Local communities are actively involved in awareness-raising activities, such as community clean-up campaigns, tree-planting initiatives, and discussions on sustainable land use practices.
- Youth Engagement:
- Youth-led initiatives, such as school projects, essay competitions, and social media campaigns, are encouraged to engage the younger generation in the fight against desertification and drought.
- International Cooperation:
- The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) coordinates global efforts and collaborates with other international organizations to promote cooperation and knowledge-sharing among countries affected by desertification and drought.
- Global Events:
- The UNCCD often hosts global celebrations, webinars, and virtual events on World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, bringing together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from around the world to discuss progress and challenges.