GOAL 15: LIFE ON LAND

Human life depends on land as much as it does on oceans for food and livelihoods. Plants provide 80% of human food sources, and we rely on agriculture as a significant economic resource and development tool. Forests cover 30% of the Earth's surface, providing vital habitats for millions of species, clean air, and water, while playing a critical role in combating climate change. Currently, we are witnessing unprecedented land degradation, with the loss of arable land reaching 30 to 35 times historical rates. Drought and desertification are increasing yearly, leading to the loss of 12 million hectares globally, affecting impoverished communities. Of the 8,300 known animal breeds, 8% are extinct, and 22% are threatened with extinction. The Sustainable Development Goals aim to protect and restore terrestrial ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, drylands, and mountains, by 2020. Halting deforestation is crucial for mitigating climate change effects. Immediate action is needed to reduce the loss of natural habitats and biodiversity, which are part of our shared heritage.