The 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the UN Convention, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, focuses on combating land degradation, drought, and desertification, crucial for tackling climate change. The UN emphasizes restoring 1.5 billion hectares of degraded land by 2030, requiring an estimated $2.6 trillion investment. Experts stress the interconnection of land degradation, biodiversity loss, and global warming. Saudi Arabia, a desert nation, leads restoration efforts with plans to rehabilitate millions of hectares. Holistic and collaborative actions are deemed essential to achieving global climate and environmental goals.

Source: Eco Watch