• Sand and dust storms (SDS) pose significant challenges to sustainable development, affecting economic, social, and environmental dimensions. 

• These storms, driven by natural and human-induced factors like climate change and unsustainable land use, impact health, agriculture, livelihoods, and global socio-economic well-being. 

• Approximately 2 million tonnes of sand and dust enter the atmosphere annually, originating primarily in dry, desert regions but traveling vast distances. 

• SDS can cause respiratory and heart diseases, disrupt transportation, and impact agriculture, contributing to desertification. 

• Recognizing the international concern over these impacts, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 12 July the International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms. 

• Implementing sustainable water and land management practices is essential to mitigate these effects and achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2, 3, 6, 8, 11, 13, and 15.

Click here to read more.