Over 77% of Earth’s land has become significantly drier in past 30 years: UN

The United Nations revealed that over 77 percent of the Earth’s land has become significantly drier in the past 30 years. According to a study by the UN Science-Policy Interface, this alarming trend poses severe threats to global agriculture, water resources, and biodiversity. 

The findings underscore the urgent need for innovative water management and sustainable land-use practices. Scientists and environmentalists are calling for immediate action to mitigate the devastating impacts of desertification and climate change.

The report published today found that



Africa lost about 12 percent of its GDP due to increasing aridity between 1990 and 2015. It also estimated that Africa will lose about 16 percent of its GDP, and Asia close to 7 percent, in the next half-decade. It noted that some crops will be particularly at risk. For example, maize yields in Kenya are projected to halve by 2050 if current trends continue. Drylands are areas where 90 percent of rainfall is lost to evaporation, leaving only 10 percent for vegetation. According to the report, two-thirds of land globally will store less water by mid-century.