Ukraine at Risk of Desertification and Increasing Frequency of Droughts Due to Climate Change

According to estimates by the United Nations, by 2050, more than 75% of the world’s population may be affected by droughts. Since the early 2000s, the number and duration of dry periods have increased by 29% compared to the previous two decades. This was stated by the World Wildlife Fund WWF-Ukraine.

This is reported by AgroReview

Climate Change and Land Degradation in Ukraine

In Ukraine, the issue of droughts is becoming increasingly acute. Despite the country’s reputation as a “breadbasket” with fertile black soils, Ukraine is under a real threat of desertification and frequent droughts. The primary cause of this is climate change, which is pushing the country into a zone of extreme temperatures and unpredictable weather events. The situation is exacerbated by the full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation, which negatively impacts the environment.

Consequences of Desertification and Droughts for the Environment and Population

Experts identify desertification and droughts as some of the most dangerous global processes of environmental degradation. These phenomena lead to the loss of fertile soils, a reduction in biodiversity, a decrease in water resources, and a deterioration in the quality of life for millions of people, especially in rural areas. Under changing climate conditions, droughts are becoming a common occurrence even in countries that previously did not face such risks, including Ukraine.

“Despite its global fame as a ‘breadbasket’ with fertile black soils, the country faces a real threat of desertification and intensified droughts. Due to climate change, our country is transitioning into a zone of extreme temperatures and weather catastrophes. The situation is significantly worsened by the full-scale invasion of Russia.”