Wendell Berry once remarked that “Soil is the great connector of lives, the healer, the restorer, and the resuscitator,” emphasising the indispensable role of soil on Earth. Soil is the origin and end of all life, serving as the source of food, medicine, and water filtration.
Yet, it is often overlooked, with many assuming it to be inexhaustible. In reality, it takes over 1,000 years to form just 0.4 inches of soil. This vital resource plays a critical role in agriculture, ecosystems, and climate regulation, acting as a natural filter, supporting biodiversity, and storing carbon to combat climate change.
However, increasing soil degradation threatens food security and environmental stability, highlighting the urgent need to prioritise soil conservation.
World Soil Day, celebrated annually on December 5, brings attention to the importance of soil. The 2024 theme, “Caring for soils: measure, monitor, manage”, urges individuals and organisations to adopt practices that ensure soil health and sustainability.
This theme stresses the value of high-quality soil data to better understand soil properties and make informed decisions for sustainable soil management. Such efforts contribute to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, especially regarding food security and climate change adaptation.
The day also raises awareness about soil degradation caused by deforestation, urbanisation, and unsustainable agriculture. It emphasises the need for sustainable soil management practices to preserve this vital resource for future generations.
Origin of World Soil Day
The idea of a global soil awareness day was proposed in 2002 by the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS). It gained formal recognition by the United Nations in 2013, thanks to the efforts of Thailand under the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. His commitment to sustainable soil management inspired the movement, and December 5 was chosen to honor his birthday.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) played a pivotal role in establishing World Soil Day as a platform for global awareness of soil health.
The inaugural World Soil Day was celebrated in 2014, and since then, it has become an annual event that highlights the importance of soil. Each year, a new theme sheds light on a specific aspect of soil conservation, encouraging people worldwide to appreciate and protect this invaluable resource.
Call to action
Healthy soil is the foundation of a prospering planet. On World Soil Day 2024, let’s commit to protecting this vital resource before it’s too late. Soil erosion has become a global issue, demanding immediate and collective action. Together, we can ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
