France is facing growing environmental challenges linked to desertification and climate change, with frequent heatwaves, large wildfires, and shrinking water supplies becoming more common. According to Jean-Daniel Cesaro, a geographer at the Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (Cirad), the Pyrénées-Orientales and the Mediterranean region have endured three years of drought since 2020 — the longest recorded streak in the area. This summer, drought warnings were issued across most of the country, with many regions on high alert. Cesaro notes that while only 1% of France's land is currently affected by desertification, the problem is expected to spread as climate change intensifies. Desertification refers to the gradual loss of vegetation cover, which can lead to the complete disappearance of plants in certain areas, including forests, meadows, and farmland. This process not only reduces agricultural productivity — affecting crops like wine and cereals — but also decreases the amount of carbon stored in the soil. Cesaro warns that future climate conditions may bring more extreme heat, longer droughts, and challenges in maintaining current agricultural practices, which heavily rely on water. This may require a shift toward crops that use less water and a broader transformation of France’s farming systems. The effects of these changes could be severe, impacting food security and leading to rising prices. Forests could suffer from widespread tree deaths, and biodiversity may decline as plants and animals struggle to adapt. The ability of soils to store carbon could also decrease, potentially worsening climate change. Additionally, water shortages could disrupt nuclear energy production, which requires large amounts of water for cooling, increasing the risk of power shortages. The economic costs of desertification and related issues are substantial. In 2022, the French Ministry of Ecological Transition estimated the cost at 5 billion euros, including expenses for soil damage, energy losses, water restrictions, forest damage, and agricultural losses. These figures are expected to rise by 2026. Cesaro also highlights that while heavy rainfall might occur more frequently, drought-affected soils may not absorb water effectively, leading to runoff and reduced groundwater recharge. To address these challenges, Cesaro advocates for adaptation strategies, sustainable food systems, and better water management. He also emphasizes the importance of supporting countries in North Africa and sub-Saharan Africa, where desertification is already severe. Investments in these regions could help France as well, as environmental changes in neighboring countries can have cross-border impacts.