17 June - World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (International)

Current Context: The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, observed annually on June 17th, is a key initiative by the United Nations to bring attention to the pressing environmental challenges of desertification and drought.

• Desertification, the process where fertile land degrades into arid land, and drought, a period of abnormally dry weather, have a significant negative impact on our planet's health and the well-being of billions of people.
• The 2024 theme, "United for Land. Our Legacy. Our Future," underscores the critical need for global collaboration to protect our vital land resources.
• Land plays a fundamental role in sustaining life on Earth.
• It provides us with almost 95% of our food, as well as materials for clothing and shelter.
• Healthy land also creates jobs, supports livelihoods, and helps regulate climate by mitigating floods, droughts, and wildfires.

Question:

1 When is the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought observed?

• A) April 22nd
• B) June 17th
• C) August 12th
• D) October 16th

Answer: B) The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, observed annually on June 17th.