A composition of matter containing a solution made from: from about 18 to about 70 wt % of a sugar; from about 2 to about 10 wt % of a water-soluble polysaccharide; from about 0.1 to about 1 wt % of a phosphate; from about 0.01 to about 1 wt % of a surfactant; and from about 18 wt % to remainder of water. A method for dust and sand abatement and erosion prevention by: providing the above solution, applying the solution to sand or dust particles wherein the solution binds to the particles; and allowing the solution to bind to the sand or dust particles and to dry thereby forming a hardened crust.