Sand is the world's most consumed raw material after water and an essential ingredient in our everyday lives. It is central for the construction of roads, bridges, and buildings. The material is also fundamental in the manufacturing of glass and silicon computer chips.
Yet the world is facing a growing sand shortage without readily available alternative materials. As infrastructure construction booms, the dramatic increase in demand for sand has led to rising tensions, violent conflict, and degraded ecosystems.
As global demand continues to rise faster than natural sources can sustain, it is crucial to manage sand sustainably. WWF and partners are exploring the issue and working to advance policy and practice related to this growing global challenge.
In recognition of the growing social, economic, and environmental impacts of the global sand crisis, WWF, and Northwestern University (ISEN) organized a series of seminars, convening global experts from across disciplines and sectors to explore solutions. The Call to Action Report distills key recommended action items focused on research, practice, and policy based upon the seminar series presentations and discussions.
