World Soil Day 2023 – soil and water, a source of life
On December 5, 2023, World Soil Day focusses our attention on soil and water. This day serves not only as a reminder of the importance of soil for biodiversity and food production, but also as a call to action for the protection of this vital resource.
Michel Roux, Dr. Sc. ETH, agricultural economist and member of our Scientific Advisory Board emphasizes:
Healthy soils are key to the sustainable production of healthy food. However, the long-term maintenance of soil health and productivity is not the task of agriculture alone, but of the entire food system. Everybody involved – including the food industry, the retail trade and consumers – have a responsibility, whether in Switzerland or elsewhere.
Why are healthy soils so important?
They are the basis of our nutrition and a central component of the ecosystem. Soil is home to an unimaginable number of organisms that contribute to the circulation of nutrients and also serves as a water reservoir and filter. These functions are crucial for plant growth and, therefore, also for food production.
How does integrated soil and water management work?
The close connection between soil and water makes integrated management of these resources crucial. Sustainable agricultural practices that improve water availability, reduce erosion and soil compaction, and strengthen resilience to climate extremes ensure long-term soil health and water quality.
Integrated soil and water management employs methods such using organic fertilizers, crop rotation and mixed cropping to maintain soil fertility, as well as efficient irrigation techniques and appropriate drainage systems to optimize water use. Attention is also paid to preserving biodiversity and minimizing the input of pollutants. Such an approach takes into account the diverse ecosystem services provided by the soil and promotes a balance between soil protection and water resource management.
What happens in the event of improper management?
Improper management of soil and water leads to problems such as soil compaction, erosion and chemical and biological pollution. These pressures impair soil fertility and increase the risk of landslides and flooding. In Switzerland, for example, around 20% of agricultural land is at high risk of erosion, particularly on slopes and where vegetables are grown intensively.
How does this influence climate change?
Efficient management of soil and water is crucial for the resilience of our environment to extreme climate events. Integrated management can provide essential ecosystem services that support life on earth and strengthen the resilience of ecosystems. Healthy soils also play another important role in climate protection as carbon sinks.
What does this mean for our soils?
Maintaining healthy soils and sustainable water management practices is essential for Switzerland and the world. With the "Swiss Soil Strategy", important steps have been taken towards a more sustainable use of these resources. The aim is to reduce the use of soil to net zero by 2050 and to restore degraded soils. World Soil Day reminds us of the urgency of preserving these valuable resources for future generations.