Aeolian (or Eolian or Æolian) processes pertain to the activity of the wins and more specifically, to the winds' ability to shape the surface of the Earth and other planets. Winds may erode, transport, and deposit materials, and are effective agents in regions with sparse vegetation and a large supply of unconsolidated sediments. Although water is much more powerful than wind, aeolian processes are important in arid environments such as deserts.