What you'll learn
How land becomes degraded and how it can be conserved.
Land degradation
- Soil erosion by wind and water, worsened by deforestation, overgrazing and poor farming.
- Desertification: fertile land turning to desert, linked to drought and human pressure.
- Effects: lost soil fertility, reduced crop yields, food insecurity.
Conservation methods
- Terracing, contour ploughing, planting windbreaks/shelter belts, crop rotation, afforestation and controlling grazing.
Exam tips
- Link a cause (e.g. overgrazing) to a specific conservation method.
- Use a named example of degradation where possible.
Common mistakes
- Confusing desertification with natural desert climate.
- Listing conservation methods without explaining how they work.