Desertification: GCSE Geography Definition

What is desertification in geography?

In GCSE geography, desertification is the process where land in dry areas becomes a barren wasteland. Hot arid and semi-arid areas typically see desertification, where vegetation, wildlife, and water disappear. Along with global warming, human activity is the main driver of land degradation that leads to desertification.

What causes desertification?

Human actions

• Deforestation removes roots that bind the soil and exposes it to wind and rain.

• Overgrazing means there are too many animals grazing an area, which can lead to soil exhaustion and soil erosion.

• Over-extraction of groundwater causes water scarcity, soil collapse, and aquifer contamination.

• Overfarming compacts and hardens the soil, blocking rain absorption.

Global warming

• Global warming causes extreme weather: droughts, hurricanes, and fires. This leads to desertification.

Key facts about desertification

• Desertification is a major global issue.

• According to the UN, over 24 billion tonnes of fertile soil vanish each year, says the UN.

• By 2050, 1.5 million km² of farmland is expected to be lost through desertification.

Desertification revision resources to ace your exams

You can learn more about desertification in our GCSE Geography revision note pages:

• Desertification (AQA GCSE Geography)

• Drought (Edexcel GCSE Geography A)

Meet all your GCSE Geography revision needs, improve your grades, and boost your confidence using revision resources from Save My Exams. This includes revision notes, flashcards and exam questions with student-friendly mark schemes.