Desertification, land degradation, and drought are significant environmental challenges directly addressed by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG 15 (Life on Land) specifically targets the issues with a goal to combat desertification, restore degraded land and soil, and strive to achieve a land degradation-neutral world. These problems are closely linked with other SDGs too. For example, desertification and land degradation can exacerbate food scarcity, affecting SDG 2 (Zero Hunger). Droughts, on the other hand, can impact the availability of clean water (SDG 6) and increase the vulnerability of poor and marginalized communities, thereby influencing SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Moreover, these challenges can intensify climate change impacts (SDG 13). Hence, addressing these issues is critical to achieving the SDGs.
As we traverse the ever-evolving landscape of the 21st century, our planet's health has become an increasingly critical point of concern. Earth Day, a global observance marked every year on April 22, provides a vital platform to raise awareness about pressing environmental issues and encourage action towards sustainable solutions. As we gear up for Earth Day 2024, the theme remains unknown, but the commitment to global ecological responsibility remains stronger than ever.
Earth Day: A Brief History
World Environment Day is the most renowned day for environmental action. Since 1974, it has been celebrated every year on June 5th, engaging governments, businesses, celebrities and citizens to focus their efforts on a pressing environmental issue.
On April 22 every year, we celebrate the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement with Earth Day. Since the first Earth Day in 1970, this day has marked global collaboration and awareness of the need to fight for a cleaner and healthier Earth. It all began in 1962 when Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring hit the New York’s bestseller list selling over 500,000 copies in 24 countries.
