Preserving Earth's Lifeblood: The Urgency of Soil Conservation

Soil is a vital natural resource crucial for the survival of all living beings. However, humans have significantly depleted this resource. It takes millions of years to form just a few centimeters of soil, highlighting the urgent need for its conservation.

Why is it imperative to save soil?

Currently, 52% of agricultural soils are already degraded, with an estimated 147 million hectares affected in India alone. This degradation not only impacts agricultural production in India but also poses a global threat to food security. Many countries worldwide already suffer from food scarcity, and soil degradation exacerbates this issue.

Soil degradation leads to several critical consequences:

• Food Scarcity: Crops require nutrient-rich soil for growth. If our soil is depleted or contaminated, it adversely affects crop yields. Countries with poor soil quality will inevitably face food scarcity and poverty.

• Lack of Biodiversity: Soil is home to millions of species of microorganisms and insects. If the soil becomes unfit for these organisms, it disrupts the entire food chain, leading to a decline in biodiversity. The SPARROW Crisis in China is a poignant example of this phenomenon.

• Water Scarcity: Soil plays a crucial role in water retention and groundwater replenishment. Depleted soil leads to water runoff, contributing to floods and droughts.

• Climate Change: Poor-quality soil results in decreased vegetation, leading to lower oxygen absorption and increased heat. These changes can trigger migration and internal conflicts.

What are the reasons behind soil degradation?

Several factors contribute to soil degradation, including excessive fertilizer and pesticide use, mining activities, human-induced disasters, overcropping, and unsustainable farming practices.

How can we prevent soil degradation?

Preventing soil degradation requires increasing its organic matter. This can be achieved by adding natural humus and fertilizers. Additionally, promoting soil biodiversity by introducing more worms, insects, and other organisms helps improve soil health. These measures are not only crucial on a large scale but can also be implemented at the individual level.