Soil and Sustainable Development

Soil and Sustainable Development

Land Degradation and Its Impact on Agriculture: Challenges, Causes, Consequences, and Solutions

Document Type : Review Article

Authors
1 Department of Soil and Water Research, Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center of Ardebil (Moghan), Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Ardebil, Iran
2 Department of Soil and Water Research, Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center of West Azerbaijan, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, West Azerbaijan, Iran
Abstract
Land degradation is a global challenge with serious consequences for agriculture, the environment and human communities. Land degradation reduces the ability of land to produce agricultural products, destroys biodiversity, increases the risk of floods and droughts, and emits greenhouse gases. Several factors, including soil erosion, vegetation destruction, water misuse, and human factors such as inappropriate agricultural practices and overgrazing, contribute to land degradation. Sustainable land management encompasses preventative methods such as soil conservation and water management, restorative methods like land reclamation and desertification control, and regulatory and policy approaches including land monitoring and legislation, to address this challenge. Sustainable land management, emphasizing soil conservation, water management, vegetation management, and the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, can play a significant role in preventing land degradation. Restoration of degraded land through various methods such as afforestation, seeding, the use of biotechnology and engineering structures is possible, but it requires continuous investment and effort. In addition, education and awareness-raising among farmers and local communities, development of appropriate laws and regulations, and provision of financial and technical support are key factors in the success of land degradation management programs. Restoration of degraded lands is often costly, so prevention of degradation is of utmost importance. By implementing appropriate strategies and international cooperation, land degradation can be prevented and steps can be taken towards sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.
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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 19 August 2025

  • Receive Date 05 July 2025
  • Revise Date 23 July 2025
  • Accept Date 19 August 2025
  • Publish Date 19 August 2025