The 2024 Global Risks Report by the World Economic Forum reveals that environmental risks constitute half of the top 10 risks anticipated over the next decade, with extreme weather events, critical changes to Earth’s systems, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem collapse ranking as the top three concerns.
Soils represent dynamic and diverse natural systems positioned at the intersection of earth, air, water, and life. Serving as crucial ecosystem service providers, they are essential for humanity’s sustenance. Enhancing the conservation and management of soils stands as one of the paramount challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
When considering our dietary choices, the importance of the soil in which our food is cultivated is often overlooked. Approximately 95%t of our food originates from soil, emphasizing the critical role of healthy and fertile soils in agricultural production. Such soils not only yield greater quantities of food but also harbor abundant organic matter comprised of carbon, thereby enhancing resilience against erosion and flooding while fostering biodiversity.
Regrettably, inadequate land management practices, exacerbated by the impacts of climate change, have compromised the health of our soils. This trend poses significant challenges for sustaining the nutritional needs of our expanding global population.
