One Area Affects Everyone
INFOGRAPHIC, PRINT
DESERTIFICATION
Desertification is a global challenge that affects people and environments worldwide. No region is immune, as it brings about profound changes to ecosystems. If left unaddressed, desertification will inevitably lead to severe environmental disruptions with far-reaching effects on economies, politics, and societies.
Ethiopia, the subject of my infographic, has experienced the gradual impacts of desertification over several decades. The country faced recurring droughts in the 1970s and 1980s, which coincided with periods of famine. These events triggered significant economic, social, and political shifts across various regions of the nation.
Desertification in Ethiopia is a growing concern that demands urgent attention and action.
Several human and environmental factors contribute to the acceleration of this process, including overgrazing, deforestation, population pressure, poor agricultural practices, soil alkalinity, and the widespread use of dung as fuel. In addition, climate-related issues like soil erosion further exacerbate the problem.
The Ethiopian highlands are among the hardest-hit regions, with an estimated 2 million hectares degraded beyond recovery. Highlighting the severe and irreversible impact of desertification in these areas.
