King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has released a comprehensive research study addressing the pressing issue of land degradation, highlighting its causes, consequences, and potential solutions to mitigate its impact.
Conducted by a team of specialized researchers, the study examines both environmental and human-driven factors contributing to land degradation, including desertification, soil erosion, loss of vegetation cover, climate change, and unsustainable human practices such as overgrazing, rapid urbanization, and intensive agriculture.
The researchers emphasized that land degradation not only threatens agricultural productivity and food security but also undermines biodiversity, water quality, and ecosystem stability — making it a critical environmental and economic challenge.
The study also explored sustainable solutions, such as adopting modern soil-conservation farming practices, rehabilitating damaged lands, and implementing integrated resource management strategies aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
KAUST reaffirmed that this research reflects its commitment to innovative scientific inquiry aimed at delivering practical solutions to global environmental challenges, while supporting the Kingdom’s efforts to safeguard its natural resources for future generations.
