Global Land Degradation Crisis Takes Center Stage as Saudi Arabia Hosts UN Summit

In December, Saudi Arabia will host the UN Convention on Combating Desertification (UNCCD) summit in Riyadh, spotlighting urgent issues like soil degradation, drought, and sustainable land management. Saudi Deputy Environment Minister Osama Faqeeha warns that global neglect of land is impacting food, water, and ecosystems, costing the world economy trillions annually. The summit will emphasize reversing land degradation, calling on the private sector for funding and advocating improved land management practices. Saudi Arabia’s initiatives, such as restoring 40 million hectares of land by 2030, will also be showcased.