Role of demonstration projects in combating desertification

The International Arid Lands Consortium was established in 1990 to promote research, education, and training for the development, management, restoration, and reclamation of arid and semi-arid lands throughout the world. One activity of the Consorium is supporting demonstration projects that lead to better management of these fragile ecosystems. Projects demonstrate the applicability of recently acquired research information and technology to management situations and stress the linking of available knowledge to decision-makers. This paper outlines requirements for demonstration projects and presents examples of Consortium-supported projects.