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Convergence of global change issues

Melanie Weynants

Cherlet, M., Hutchinson, C., Reynolds, J., Hill, J., Sommer, S., von Maltitz, G. (Eds.), World Atlas of Desertification, Publication Office of the European Union, Luxembourg, 2018.

2018

The global map shown here does not represent land degradation. Rather, it illustrates the convergence of evidence of global change issues (GCIs) relevant to land degradation. The correct interpretation of the map must consider contextual information on regional and local conditions, as per individual user’s knowledge. Concerns can be validated or dismissed only by evaluating them within their local biophysical, social, economic and political contexts. Local context provides an understanding of causes and consequences of degradation, but also offers guidance for efforts to control or reverse it.