Why has soil erosion damaged parts of northern El Salvador?

The northern highlands of El Salvador have experienced significant environmental deterioration and soil erosion due to a combination of geographical and human factors. Specifically, the region is characterized by steep slopes and ancient, heavily eroded volcanic structures.1

This vulnerability is exacerbated by human activity, including excessive forest clearance and the overuse of soils. Furthermore, the area suffers from overpopulation, which has intensified the pressure on the land as the majority of the local inhabitants are subsistence farmers. These combined pressures have led to severe deforestation and ongoing soil degradation in the region.12