Planet Sand

Arid regions now cover half of China and are encroaching on arable and populated land. Each spring, 270 million people endure suffocating sandstorms for days on end. The country is at war against the Yellow Dragon, which risks devouring it.

The Aralkum is the result of an ecological disaster which caused the virtual disappearance of the Aral Sea. Lunar landscapes and sand dunes now cover the area which is submerged under 20mts of water.

South America's Atacama desert is the driest on earth. In some places, it hasn't rained for 500 years and the small communities and fragile ecosystems are the first affected. Scientists are working to manage resources and save the last oasis.

Australia is increasingly suffering from extremes, including storms, fires and droughts. The inhabitants try to defy the elements, with the desalination of seawater and more environment-friendly farming.

In a century, the Sahara has advanced 250kms southwards across a 6000km front. The land has become infertile and people have fled; in Morocco and Senegal, a desperate struggle is waged against desertification.