COP17 Begins in Mongolia to Combat Land Degradation and Desertification

The 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) has started in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The conference, which runs until August 28, focuses on land degradation, desertification, drought, water and food security. Key topics include pastoralism, drought resilience, and sustainable land management. The event is attended by representatives from 197 countries, international organizations, and the private sector. Mongolia, as the new chair, succeeds Saudi Arabia, which handed over the presidency during the event.