The world's deserts represent unique ecosystems which support significant plant and animal biodiversity. Various human societies have also been established in deserts throughout history, and today they are an important part of the world's natural and cultural heritage. They are also diverse landscapes, contrary to the common notion of vast swathes of endless sand. This report shows that they are more than landscapes which are the end result of the process of desertification. It urges policy-makers to consider the development potential of deserts, and their conservation needs.--Publisher's description.

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