Increasing aridification calls for urgent global adaptive solutions and policy action

Pricope, Narcisa G.; Vicente-Serrano, Sergio M.; Toreti, Andrea; Ocampo-Melgar, Anahí; Spinoni, Jonathan; Morán-Tejeda, Enrique; Archer, Emma; Diedhiou, Arona; Ravindranath, Nirajalli; Mesbahzadeh, Tayebeh; Pulwarty, Roger S.; Alibakhshi, Sara.

https://doi.org/10.1038/s44221-025-00432-9

Aridification, the increasing dryness of land due largely to climate change, is expanding across more than 40% of the Earth’s land surface and already affects over 2.3 billion people. It threatens ecosystems, biodiversity, water resources and livelihoods, particularly in vulnerable regions. The article argues that current governance and policy responses are often fragmented and focused on short-term reactions, rather than proactive and long-term strategies. The authors call for integrated approaches that combine climate, land and water management, strengthen monitoring and early warning systems, promote sustainable agriculture and innovative water solutions, and involve local communities and Indigenous knowledge. Stronger international cooperation, inclusive decision-making and sustained investment are essential to build resilience and prevent worsening food, water and humanitarian crises in increasingly arid regions.

Information and views set out in this community page can also be those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official opinion of the European Commission.