Date: Sunday, 12 July 2026; 4th Annual Day.
Coordinators: United Nations Coalition on Combating Sand and Dust Storms (UNCCSD)
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
Objectives:
The International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms is observed each year to advance the following key goals:
- Increase public awareness about the critical need to address sand and dust storms and their impact on human health, well-being, and environmental safety.
- Emphasize the importance of strengthening early warning systems and sharing climate and weather data to enable timely forecasting and response to sand and dust storms.
- Encourage sustainable land management practices, support resilience to climate change, and promote sustainable livelihoods for communities affected by sand and dust storms.
Inception:
The International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms was first commemorated on July 12, 2023.
History:
On June 8, 2023, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated July 12 as the International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms. This annual observance was established through Resolution A/RES/77/294.
The resolution emphasizes the urgent need for global and regional collaboration to prevent, manage, and lessen the impacts of sand and dust storms. It highlights the importance of strengthening early warning systems and promoting the exchange of climate and weather data to improve forecasting and response efforts. Furthermore, the resolution encourages all Member States, specialized agencies, international and regional organizations, civil society, the private sector, academia, and other relevant stakeholders to observe the International Day in ways that align with their national priorities—particularly through educational programs and awareness-raising activities.
Official website:
https://www.un.org/en/observances/day-of-combating-sand-and-dust-storms
