Already, land degradation is widespread and severe enough to reduce agricultural productivity, especially in Africa, Central America and Asia, but with land degradation around the world reaching alarming levels, a more focused and systematic GEF response to land degradation is critical. GEF is increasing its work on land degradation by building on current activities as well as on the experience and lessons of its partners. GEF’s land degradation strategy recognizes that land and water resources are key to sustainable development in the world’s dry areas.