illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Euronews or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The UN General Assembly has declared 2025-2034 as the United Nations Decade on Combating Sand and Dust Storms, beginning July 12
• This initiative aims to address the health and economic threats posed by sand and dust storms, which affect regions from central Africa to northern China

🔭 The context: The resolution, proposed by the Group of 77 and China, emphasizes international and regional cooperation to mitigate the adverse effects of these storms
• The first International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms is being observed today, with countries worldwide participating in educational and awareness activities

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Sand and dust storms exacerbate respiratory illnesses, destroy crops, and increase desertification
• Addressing these issues is crucial for improving public health, enhancing food security, and building resilience to climate change 

⏭️ What's next: The UN Food and Agriculture Organization will lead efforts in promoting sustainable land management, afforestation, and improved early warning systems to mitigate storm impacts

💬 One quote: "The initiative aims to 'halt and mitigate the negative effects of sand and dust storms' through 'international and regional cooperation,'" said Uganda's UN Ambassador Godfrey Kwoba

📈 One stat: The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification estimates that trillions of kilograms of sand and dust enter the atmosphere annually, with at least 25% originating from human activities


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