Risk of drought looms ahead as an unprecedented emergency
Source: Middle East Insurance Review | Jan 2024
Recent drought related data based on new research in the last few years and compiled by UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) points to “an unprecedented emergency on a planetary scale, where the massive impacts of human-induced droughts are only starting to unfold.”
The UNCCD report Global Drought Snapshot produced in collaboration with International Drought Resilience Alliance (IDRA) was launched at COP28 in the UAE.
According to the report, few hazards cause more economic loss and affects more sectors of societies than drought.
UNCCD is one of three conventions that originated at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. The other two address climate change (UNFCCC) and biodiversity (UN CBD).
The report also highlights land restoration, sustainable land management and nature positive agricultural practices as critical aspects of building global drought resilience. By adopting nature-positive farming techniques, such as drought-resistant crops, efficient irrigation methods, no-till and other soil conservation practices, farmers can reduce the impact of drought on their crops and incomes.
It said efficient water management is another important component of global drought resilience. This includes investing in sustainable water supply systems, conservation measures and the promotion of water-efficient technologies.
Disaster preparedness and early warning systems are also essential for global drought resilience. Investing in meteorological monitoring, data collection and risk assessment tools can help respond quickly to drought emergencies and minimise impacts. Building global drought resilience requires international cooperation, knowledge sharing as well as environmental and social justice.
The report said forced migration is surging globally; violent water conflicts are on the rise; the ecological base that enables all life on earth is eroding more quickly than at any time in known human history.