Land degradation can lead to an increase in which of the following issues?

Land degradation refers to the deterioration of the land's quality and productivity, which often results from various factors such as deforestation, overgrazing, soil contamination, and improper agricultural practices. One significant consequence of land degradation is increased erosion.

When land becomes degraded, the protective vegetation cover is often lost, leaving soil vulnerable to the actions of wind and water. This lack of cover allows for more soil particles to be dislodged and carried away, leading to higher rates of erosion. Erosion can lead to the loss of nutrient-rich topsoil, reducing the land's fertility and ultimately impacting agricultural productivity.

In contrast, increased agricultural productivity and improved land use efficiency would typically require healthy, well-maintained land. Similarly, a reduction in soil salinity is generally associated with good land management practices rather than degradation. Therefore, the direct link between land degradation and increased erosion underscores why this is the correct answer in the context of the questions posed.