Environmental conservation has an impact on every level of life on the planet, from landowners in developing countries to threatened animal species. However, land degradation occurs when our activities negatively affect land and soils. Deforestation and desertification – caused by human activities and climate change – pose major challenges to sustainable development and have affected the lives and livelihoods of millions of people in the fight against poverty. By focusing on protecting forests and other natural habitats, this goal not only ensures that wildlife can thrive, but people around the world can enjoy better living conditions.