Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
November 3, 2025 Climate and environment
Around 1.7 billion people worldwide live in regions where agricultural yields are declining. The primary cause is human-caused land degradation. This is a serious, yet often overlooked, problem that reduces agricultural productivity and harms the environment. This is according to a new report from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), presented Monday at the organization's headquarters in Rome.
The report's authors emphasize that land degradation is not just an environmental issue. It directly impacts how much food we can produce, how prosperous rural communities are, and the sustainability of our food system.
The report contains the most detailed analysis to date of the impacts of soil degradation. It identifies the world's most vulnerable regions and shows how declining crop yields are linked to poverty, hunger, and malnutrition.
What is land degradation?
According to the FAO, degradation is the gradual deterioration of land's ability to perform its natural functions. This can occur due to natural causes, such as erosion or salinization, but is more often caused by humans: deforestation, overgrazing, unsustainable farming practices, and improper irrigation.
Who is affected?
According to FAO estimates, crop yields decline by approximately 10 percent in areas with degraded land. These areas are home to 1.7 billion people, including 47 million children under five who suffer from stunting. This problem is particularly acute in densely populated Asian countries.
Is there a way out?
FAO estimates that restoring just 10 percent of degraded arable land would provide food for an additional 154 million people annually.
This requires a comprehensive approach: smart land-use planning, anti-deforestation laws, farmer support programs, and environmental requirements for receiving subsidies.
What does FAO offer?
The report's authors emphasize that degradation affects both large and small farms. However, approaches must be different: small farms have fewer resources, while large ones have greater opportunities to implement sustainable practices.
FAO calls on countries to recognise these differences and develop policies that will help conserve land and increase productivity – for future food security.
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