Brazil desertification threatens water and food security

Approximately 39 million people in Brazil live in areas threatened by desertification, a process of environmental degradation where previously productive land loses its ability to retain water and sustain life. According to the Superintendency for the Development of the Northeast (Sudene), about 18% of Brazilian territory is composed of areas susceptible to desertification.

This degradation is driven primarily by human activities, such as deforestation and inadequate agricultural practices, alongside climate variations. The impacts affect vulnerable populations and traditional communities first, but the consequences extend to food production, water security, the economy, and rising temperatures in both rural and urban areas.

Representatives from Brazilian government agencies and civil society will bring these challenges and potential solutions to the 17th United Nations Conference to Combat Desertification (COP17) in Mongolia, scheduled for August 17–28.