What are the effects of desertification on the environment?

Impacts of Desertification

Desertification leads to a significant reduction in vegetation cover, which in turn diminishes the food supply available for both livestock and humans. This ecological shift elevates the risk of zoonotic diseases, potentially including outbreaks like COVID-19. Additionally, it results in the decline of forested areas, leading to a scarcity of wood resources. The depletion of aquifers further contributes to a reduction in freshwater reserves, exacerbating the challenges faced by communities in affected regions.