We have to stop this cycle. Italy has a program of helping the countries of North Africa to combat desertification, partly in order to stem the increasing tide of refugees attempting to reach Europe. He was also concerned about the rise in the number of refugees from the east. The sustainable use of soil is one of Europe's greatest environmental, social and economic challenges. In a report published on Tuesday the agency said the first stages of serious soil degradation were being noted in parts of Europe and 150 million hectares were at high risk of erosion.
Deterioration is at a critical point in Mediterranean countries.
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