LEADS TO: deterioration of vital components of biophysical environments
Accelerated rate + extent of our impact
Decrease in biodiversity
LAND DEGRADATION
'The decline in the quality of natural land resources, commonly caused by improper use'
Land degradation encompasses soil degradation and the deterioration of natural landscapes and vegetation. It
includes the adverse effects of : overgrazing, excessive tillage (mechanical cultivation of agricultural soils by a
plough), erosion, sediment deposition, mining, urbanisation, disposal of industrial wastes, road construction,
decline of plant communities and the effects of poisonous plants of animals.
It affects soil, flora, fauna, water (both quality
and quantity), aesthetic appeal and inevitability
and production levels