World Soil Day:
The amazing features of soil
Interestingly, today, the world celebrates World Soil Day. To many, soil is just dirt, something we walk on daily without much thought. It may seem like a nuisance during rainy seasons, but to farmers, it is a blessing for food production. However, most of us do not realise that soil is not just dirt; it is a living, breathing ecosystem that is crucial in supporting life on Earth.
One of the most fascinating facts about soil is that it is alive. A single teaspoon of healthy soil contains more microorganisms than there are people on Earth. These tiny organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, work together to break down organic matter and release essential nutrients that plants need to grow. Without them, the soil would lose its fertility, and food production would suffer greatly.
Although soil takes centuries to form, it is easily destroyed. Just one inch of topsoil can take 500 to 1,000 years to develop naturally. However, deforestation, over-farming, and poor land management can destroy this valuable resource within just a few years. Consequently, soil degradation leads to reduced crop yields and increased desertification and contributes to climate change.
It is vital to understand that not all soil is the same. In terms of the different soil types, each has its own micro-composition that makes soil sandy, loamy, or clay. However, soil can also be classified into healthy or dead soil. Healthy soil is full of life, while dirt is dead soil that has lost its nutrients and microbial activity. Fortunately, we can revive unhealthy soil by adopting sustainable gardening and farming practices. For one, Planting cover crops such as legumes adds essential nutrients, prevents erosion, and keeps the soil from becoming compacted. For years, farmers have practised crop rotation as this helps maintain nutrient balance by preventing the depletion of specific minerals. Additionally, individuals and professionals whose work involves working with soil daily or more occasionally understand the importance of Using compost, manure, and mulch to improve soil structure and enhance its water-holding capacity, reducing the need for chemical fertilisers that can harm beneficial microbes.
Healthy soil plays a significant role in reducing climate change. It absorbs more carbon from the atmosphere than trees, helping to store greenhouse gases and mitigate global warming. However, when soil is degraded, it releases carbon back into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. This highlights the importance of maintaining soil health through sustainable practices.
Another remarkable function of soil is its ability to filter pollutants and toxins from water. As rainwater moves through the soil, harmful substances are naturally removed before the water reaches underground reservoirs. This capability is why healthy soil is essential for clean drinking water and overall environmental health.
Although the underground system in the soil has its own natural survival strategy that keeps ecosystems balanced and thriving, we must protect the soil for our future use. As we celebrate World Soil Day, it is crucial to understand the amazing role of soil in sustaining life, filtering water, reducing climate change, and supporting food production. This understanding allows us to generate and take simple yet powerful steps to care for it. Sustainable farming, reducing deforestation, composting, and planting diverse crops all help keep soil healthy, productive, and life-supporting for generations.
