Discuss the human and natural causes of desertification. You must use case studies and/or articles to support your answer.
15 marks
Desertification is the gradual process of land degradation leading to the transformation of once fertile land into desert-like conditions. This is a global issue that is caused by a combination of human activities and natural processes.
One of the key human causes of desertification is overgrazing. When livestock are allowed to graze on land beyond its carrying capacity, vegetation becomes scarce and soil erosion occurs. This was seen in the case of the Sahel region in Africa, where overgrazing by nomadic herders led to the degradation of once fertile land into desert.
Another human cause of desertification is deforestation. When trees are cut down for timber or to make way for agriculture, the land becomes vulnerable to erosion and desertification. This was evident in the case of the Loess Plateau in China, where deforestation led to severe soil erosion and desertification.
Additionally, unsustainable agricultural practices such as intensive farming and the use of chemical fertilizers can exacerbate desertification. This was highlighted in a study by Holdren (2004) which showed that unsustainable farming practices in the Great Plains region of the United States have contributed to soil degradation and desertification.
Natural causes of desertification include prolonged droughts and climate change. The Sahel region in Africa has experienced prolonged droughts in recent decades, leading to the depletion of vegetation and soil degradation. This was documented in a study by Nicholson (2013) which showed how climate change has exacerbated desertification in the Sahel region.
In conclusion, desertification is a complex issue that is caused by a combination of human activities and natural processes. By addressing the root causes of desertification such as overgrazing, deforestation, unsustainable agriculture, and climate change, we can work towards preventing further land degradation and promoting sustainable land management practices.