Mind the 'sand gap'
UN Environment Programme finds that surging global demand is outpacing sustainable sand supply, threatening ecosystems.
It estimates that we are using sand at the 'staggering rate of 50Bt per year', and sand demand for buildings is expected to rise by 45% by 2060.
About half of dredging companies are operating within Marine Protected Areas, accounting for 15% of the volume dredged.
Yet sand also provides critical habitats for fish, turtles, birds, crabs, and countless other species, supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. The report explains that it is essential for nature, food and water security. Leaving sand within ecosystems can help achieve the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework goal to conserve and manage 30% of land, waters and seas (terrestrial, inland water, and coastal and marine areas).
Sand and Sustainability: An Essential Resource for Nature and Development calls on governments and industry to recognise sand’s essential value to development and nature, and to fully integrate biodiversity considerations in sand governance.
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