In order to develop and implement evidence-based and scientifically sound methods for monitoring and assessing DLDD and their consequences, a holistic approach is of utmost importance. It is vital to build bridges between the many different disciplines, sectors and society as a whole, in order to develop and establish integrative solutions for a more sustainable future. Providing a platform for the exchange of intersectorial experience and transdisciplinary knowledge is one of Planet@Risks’ main goals. e papers in this Special Issue on Desertification present state-of-the-art research reports, case studies for good practices, scientific reports and working papers in the field of economic assessment of desertification, land degradation and drought (DLDD), of sustainable land management practices (SLM) of drylands, and of resilience building.
All papers in this Planet@Risk Special Issue on Desertification are based on presentations given during
the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) 2nd Scientific Conference on ”Economic
assessment of desertification, sustainable land management and resilience of arid, semi-arid and dry subhumid areas”, held 9-12 April 2013 in Bonn, Germany (http://2sc.unccd.int/home/).The Global Risk Forum GRF Davos, as lead institution selected by the Bureau of the Comittee of Science and Technology, organized the UNCCD 2nd Scientific Conference.