environment
The global sand crisis: it’s being used up faster than it can be replaced
It is the most extracted solid material on Earth – but this extraction can threaten ecosystems and livelihoods
TL;DR
- Sand is the most extracted solid material on Earth, with global usage at 50 billion tonnes annually.
- Sand is being extracted faster than it can be replenished, threatening livelihoods and ecosystems.
- Land reclamation projects, like one in the Maldives, can cause irreversible environmental damage, including coral reef destruction.
- Sand is essential for construction, industry, and also plays a crucial role in natural defenses against climate change impacts.
- The UN report calls for improved governance, better data, mapping, monitoring, transparency, and adherence to environmental rules for sand extraction.