Soil degradation is emerging as a major threat to global food security, with an estimated 95 percent of the world’s food supply dependent on healthy soils. The decline in soil quality is being driven by factors including erosion, deforestation, unsustainable farming practices, pollution, excessive use of chemicals and the effects of climate change. As fertile land becomes increasingly degraded, agricultural productivity could decline, making it more difficult for farmers to produce enough food to meet the needs of a growing global population. Healthy soil plays a critical role in supporting plant growth, storing carbon, retaining water and providing essential nutrients required for agricultural production. Experts have warned that continued deterioration could have serious consequences for food availability, rural livelihoods and economic stability, particularly in regions where communities depend heavily on agriculture. Smallholder farmers may face some of the greatest challenges as declining soil fertility can increase production costs and reduce crop yields. The impact could also extend beyond farms, affecting food prices and supply chains as production becomes more difficult and expensive. Addressing soil degradation requires stronger adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, including crop rotation, improved irrigation, organic soil management, agroforestry and measures to reduce erosion. Farmers can also improve soil health by using appropriate fertilizers and protecting land from excessive cultivation. Governments, agricultural organizations and environmental groups are increasingly calling for greater investment in soil conservation and sustainable land management. Protecting the world’s soil resources is considered essential to maintaining agricultural productivity and ensuring future generations have access to sufficient and nutritious food. Without urgent action, continued soil degradation could undermine global efforts to achieve long-term food security and environmental sustainability.
