Environment

As COP16 (the UN Conference on Desertification and Land Degradation) was about to begin in Saudi Arabia, the UN sent an alarming message to the world.

In a recent report, the UN Convention reveals that deforestation and intensive agriculture are undeniably threatening the planet's ability to support human societies.

On Sunday, Ibrahim Thiaw, the executive secretary of the UNCCD (United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification), stated that "if we fail to recognize the essential role of land and take appropriate measures, the consequences will spread" and "intensify the difficulties for future generations". According to the UNCCD, 1.5 billion hectares of degraded land should be restored before the end of the decade, reports.

In the new report published by the UNCCD, the devastating consequences of agriculture on the planet are highlighted. As reported by France info, agriculture is linked to 23% of greenhouse gas emissions, 80% of deforestation and 70% of fresh water use.

Ibrahim Thiaw, supported by the voice of Swedish scientist Johan Rockstrom, says: "We're on the edge of a precipice and must decide whether to step back and take transformative measures or continue on a path of irreversible environmental change." He addeed: "The expansion of agricultural land may feed more people in the short term, but it can accelerate soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, and therefore food security in the long term."

(MH with AsD - Source: France info - Illustration: Unsplash)