Mitigating aeolian sand erosion and strength enhancement of Indian desert sand using biobased solutions

Abstract

Wind induced sand erosion is a major global misfortune, which degrades around one-third of global land. Sand and dust storms are common environmental hazards that occur normally in arid and semi-arid areas. Under strong wind action, dust particles are carried away from one place to another. The windswept sand particles cover large areas including highways, and make the visibility vague, resulting in accidents. These are also responsible for damaged infrastructure and delayed flights. These particles also cause serious health issues such as allergies respiratory diseases, etc. among people living close to arid and semi-arid areas. It also affects the sustainable agriculture, ecosystem, and economic progress of society. To address these challenges, there is an urgent need for an environment-friendly, cost-effective, durable, and practical approach to mitigate wind-induced sand erosion.