Discuss the role of aeolian processes in desertification and land degradation. (Answer in 150 words)

Aeolian processes are the erosion, transportation and deposition of sediment by wind, especially effective where vegetation cover and soil moisture are low.

Deflation removes fine, fertile particles and organic matter; abrasion damages plants and exposed surfaces. Saltation and suspension transport topsoil beyond fields, while sand deposition buries crops, roads and irrigation channels. Dust storms reduce air quality and can export nutrients, lowering soil productivity.

Overgrazing, deforestation, faulty irrigation, tillage, drought and climate variability expose soil. Vegetation loss creates a feedback: less cover increases wind speed at the surface, which causes more erosion, lower infiltration and declining biomass. Desertification therefore has agricultural, health and livelihood consequences.

Shelterbelts, dune stabilisation, contour farming, mulching, controlled grazing, conservation tillage and restoration of native grasses reduce wind velocity and retain soil. Land-use planning and drought-resilient livelihoods must accompany engineering measures.

deflation, abrasion, saltation, dust storms, shelterbelts, desertification