Today, December 5th, is world soil day. Here’s a link to the UN site, and here’s one to related Twitter feeds.
UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon says
“On World Soil Day, I call for greater attention to the pressing issues affecting soils, including climate change, antimicrobial resistance, soil-borne diseases, contamination, nutrition and human health.”
The Soil Association reminds us:
“One quarter of our planet’s life is hidden beneath our feet; a complex community of organisms that are vital for healthy soil But soils are under threat. Across the world, agricultural intensification is depleting the soil, its productivity and biodiversity. At the same time, soil provides living space for humans, as well as essential ecosystem services, which are important for water regulation and supply, climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration and cultural services. But soils are under pressure from increases in population, higher demands for food and competing land uses. Approximately 33% of our global soils are degraded and policy makers around the world are exploring opportunities to embrace sustainable development via the sustainable development goals. Let’s protect our soils and spread the word about this remarkable world of soil life which helps feed us all. Together we can change the world.