Mongolia to Host UN Desertification Conference Amid Global Heatwaves

Ulan Bator, Mongolia, will host the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP 17) to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification from August 17 to 28, 2026. The conference theme, "Restore Land, Restore Hope," is particularly relevant given the global context of heatwaves and desertification. Mongolia, with 77% of its land degraded, is the world's most affected country, making it a fitting host.

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Restore Land, Restore Hope

The extreme heatwaves impacting various regions, including France and Morocco, have caused significant forest fires and loss of life. These urgent issues, alongside land degradation, climate change, and deforestation, will be central to the COP 17 discussions. The goal is to hold decision-makers accountable and urge major powers to support weaker nations struggling with desertification.

Investing in soil health is presented as crucial for food security, climate adaptation, and biodiversity. Healthy soil stores carbon and water, mitigating drought impacts. COP 17 aims to persuade governments, agricultural banks, and the private sector to invest in land restoration and cease subsidizing harmful agricultural practices.

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The soil only gives what it receives.

For low-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, yield deficits and limited access to resources make populations vulnerable. The article stresses the need for support, including providing essential inputs for land restoration. Public awareness campaigns on soil protection are also vital, as are the fulfillment of funding promises. Desertification and land degradation affect 40% of the Earth's land surface, rendering 100 million hectares unproductive annually and threatening the lives of 3.2 billion people.

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It is urgent to act.