According to the FAO, over 95% of the food we eat is derived from soil, and currently about 33% of our soil is already degraded.
How serious is the issue?
On a yearly basis, around 100 million hectares of land is degraded annually. The erosion process can reduce crop yield potential by 10% by the year 2050 and result in the loss of soil amounting to 75 billion tons. Such degradation threatens a whole 1.7 billion world population living in its vicinity.
Why is that important?
Soil is responsible for storing water and carbon, and healthy soil has the capability to absorb up to 34% of the CO2 emission produced on farm land. Soil is crucial for the survival of 25% of terrestrial species.
Is it possible to reverse the effects of soil degradation?
Yes, it is possible, as reversing the degradation of only 10% of the agricultural land would lead to an increase in the number of people that could be feed with food produced on that land of about 154 million. Use of cover crops and composting can save us from soil degradation consequences, while reducing food waste is beneficial at the same time.
Stay informed on nature’s biggest global events
Will Countries Hit Food Goals?
Find out why most may miss 2030 targets.
Is Sand Really Running Out?
Explore why the world is short of sand.
Can Growing Food Indoors Help?
Weigh the pros and cons of vertical farming.
