Land Degradation and Its Causes

Land degradation is defined as the deterioration of the productive capacity of land due to overexploitation by humans. Land degradation affects soil chemistry and soil biodiversity and alters the natural ecological processes and ecosystem of the affected area. Land degradation has put the world’s ecosystems under intense pressure as their capacity to provide vital resources and services is rapidly decreasing. Degraded lands have reduced capacity for supply of goods (food, timber, fibre, fuel etc) for humankind.

The major causes of land degradation are:

  1. Deforestation
  2. Soil erosion
  3. Unpredictable weather patterns or climatic conditions
  4. Droughts and floods
  5. Modern agricultural practices
  6. Soil pollution
  7. Increasing Urbanization

Land degradation is a major challenge that needs to be addressed quickly, not just to restore the ecosystem and biodiversity of the affected area but also for maintaining economic growth and social structure in human society.

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