How You Can Be a Land Steward on World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
June 16, 2024
Life throws curveballs. We all have our own challenges, bills to pay, and immediate concerns that can feel all-consuming. It’s easy to get stuck in this cycle, especially when faced with seemingly insurmountable problems like desertification and drought. We might feel overwhelmed or even insensitive to the destruction we’re leaving behind for future generations. But here’s the thing: we can’t afford to keep kicking the can down the road. It’s time for you to assess how you are doing as a land steward.
Your can make a difference
Maybe you can’t change the world but you can change your world!!!
This World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (June 17th), let’s break the cycle of passing on a worsening planet. Even amidst our daily struggles, we can all be land stewards, taking steps towards a more sustainable future.
The theme this year, “United for Land. Our Legacy. Our Future,” is a powerful reminder that healthy land is the foundation for a thriving planet. Desertification, the process of land degradation in arid regions, and drought threaten food security, displace people, and contribute to climate change. It’s a complex issue, but that doesn’t mean we’re powerless.
It’s manageable, You don’t need much change to be a land steward
Here’s the good news: being a land steward doesn’t require a complete life overhaul. Small changes in our daily routines can make a big difference:
- Plant Power: Plant native trees and shrubs in your yard. Native plants require less water and create habitat for local wildlife.
- Compost Crusader: Composting food scraps and yard waste reduces landfill waste and creates nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
- Water Wise: Be mindful of your water usage! Take shorter showers, fix leaky faucets, and water your lawn and garden only when needed.
- Shop Smart: Support companies that prioritize sustainable practices. Look for products with recycled content and minimal packaging.
- Spread the Word: Talk to your friends and family about land degradation and what they can do to help. Share information and resources on social media.
Our everyday choices, from the water we use to the things we throw away, can contribute to environmental problems. Leaving the faucet running while brushing our teeth wastes precious water, and single-use plastics often end up in landfills or pollute our oceans. Spreading awareness about these issues, however, can be a powerful tool. By sharing information and encouraging conversations, we can inspire others to make small changes that collectively create a big impact for the planet’s health.
Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a larger movement. Let’s choose to be the generation that breaks the cycle of neglect and embraces sustainable practices. Together, we can leave a healthy legacy for future generations, ensuring they inherit a world teeming with life, not dust.
Here are some additional resources you can check out:
- The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD): [UNCCD website ON UNCCD unccd.int]
- The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): [World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, 17 June 2024 | Land & Water fao.org]
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