The Precedent
Mongolia, known for its vast landscapes and nomadic heritage, is facing a formidable environmental challenge that threatens its fragile ecosystems and the well-being of its people. Desertification, exacerbated by climate change and unsustainable land use practices, has led to a severe Yellow Dust problem that blankets the neighboring countries of China, South Korea and Japan in dust storms, impacting air quality and public health.
Desertification: A Growing Threat
Desertification, the process by which fertile land transforms into arid desert, has been slowly encroaching upon Mongolia's landscape. Prolonged droughts, overgrazing by livestock, deforestation, and human activities have contributed to the degradation of once-productive lands. According to the empirical models, 76.8% of the land in Mongolia is degraded, of which 22.9% is severely degraded. This environmental menace not only affects the livelihoods of Mongolia's herders but also disrupts local ecosystems and exacerbates the scarcity of water resources.
The Yellow Dust Storms
One of the most visible and immediate consequences of desertification in Mongolia is the occurrence of Yellow Dust storms. These storms are characterized by the swirling clouds of fine sand and dust particles that engulf the landscape, creating a yellowish haze that can be seen from space. The primary cause of these storms is the loosening and transport of topsoil due to desertification.
Environmental and Health Implications
The Yellow Dust problem poses multifaceted challenges. Firstly, it significantly deteriorates air quality, leading to respiratory problems and various health issues among the population. Mongolia already has high rates of respiratory diseases, and these dust storms exacerbate the situation. Secondly, the storms affect visibility, posing risks to transportation and aviation.
Image taken from space showing the extend of the yellow dust storm.
