World Day to Combat Desertification

The 2008 World Day to Combat Desertification was celebrated under the theme, “Combating land degradation for sustainable agriculture.” The issue is a real challenge in the modern society, both in developed and developing countries, as land degradation cannot be solved by the effort of one country alone due to the increasing concern on climate change.

Land degradation intensifies agricultural economic losses, disorganizes local and regional food markets, and causes social and political instability. Here are some basic facts about the linkage between land degradation and sustainable agriculture.

You can organize 

• A drawing/poster competition at school
• A plants /seeds sale (sell and plant the appropriate seed or plant for your region to initiate a sustainable growing)
• Events that attract many people, such as a sport competition (“run/swim for the land”) or a concert.
• Lectures, debates, panel discussions on the theme
• A tree planting ceremony

Education for Justice resources: 

• Resource: Climate Change: Facts and Faces
• Handout: 10 Earth-Friendly Ways You Can Make a Difference: Global climate change has been a major topic in the public spotlight these days. While everyone from scientists to politicians are joining forces to address this reality, there are numerous simple things each one of us can do to make a difference. Catholic social teaching calls us to take responsibility for the way we care for the earth. This one-page resource contains 10 easy things you can do to be a better steward.

Web site: World Day to Combat Desertification

 

In his encyclical Laudato Si’, Pope Francis calls for urgent action to address environmental degradation and the social injustices that accompany climate change. The encyclical emphasizes the interconnectedness of all creation, urging global efforts to protect our planet for future generations. This message aligns perfectly with the resources offered in the Earth Day Toolbox, a comprehensive guide for integrating Catholic Social Teaching (CST) into environmental advocacy.

The Earth Day Toolbox provides a wealth of materials—prayers, reflections, and action plans—that empower schools, communities, and organizations to promote sustainability. Resources like the Care for Creation litany and An Inconvenient Sequel discussion guide offer practical steps for individuals and groups to engage with Laudato Si’ and foster a deeper commitment to integral ecology.

As Pope Francis reminds us, “everything is connected,” and our efforts to protect the Earth must also prioritize the dignity of the most vulnerable communities. By integrating these resources into Earth Day observances and everyday actions, Catholics worldwide can unite to combat climate change and safeguard God’s creation.