Deserts from source of chemical compounds to carbon free power houses.

Protecting dry-lands is essential. Although deserts cover more than 40% of the planet’s land area, they are facing dramatic changes as a result of global climate change, high water demands, tourism and salt contamination of irrigated soils. Desertification now affects one third of the worlds surface and has an impact on the fifth of the worlds population. Underground water supplies had been used quicker than rainfall can refill them. Deserts are vital ecosystems offering many benefits. The desert plants adapted to the harsh environment, could be an important source of chemical compounds for medicine and industrial products. Meanwhile some experts believe deserts with their abundance of sun light could become the carbon free power houses of the 21st century.