UN warns: drought costs $300B annually

The United Nations has issued a stark warning at COP16 in Riyadh: droughts are draining the global economy by over $300 billion every year.

Without urgent action, 75% of the world’s population could face the devastating impacts of drought by 2025, driven by worsening environmental degradation.

The UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) emphasized the need for massive investment—an estimated $1 billion daily from 2025 to 2030—in sustainable solutions such as reforestation and water conservation. Executive Secretary Ibrahim Thiaw called for a significant increase in land restoration efforts, stressing the importance of protecting lives and livelihoods.

The call to action comes as global leaders grapple with escalating climate challenges. The UN’s message is unequivocal: combating drought is not only essential for preserving ecosystems but also for safeguarding global economies and communities from collapse.