World Soil Day 2024 Observed on December 05

World Soil Day is celebrated annually on December 5 and commemorates its 10th anniversary. This year’s theme is “Caring for Soils – Measure, Monitor, Manage”, which focuses on the importance of accurate soil data and the data is crucial for promoting sustainable practices. These practices support food security and environmental protection and will be hosted in Thailand, also people can participate online via Zoom.

Importance of Soil

Soil is vital for life on Earth, which produces over 95% of the world’s food. Soil provides 15 of the 18 nutrients required for plant growth. Healthy soil supports diverse ecosystems, which plays a key role in water filtration and carbon storage.

Threats to Soil Health

Soil faces numerous threats and harmful agricultural practices degrade soil quality. Climate change exacerbates these issues. Erosion reduces soil fertility and eroded soil struggles to retain water. Nutrient depletion leads to food insecurity. These problems contribute to broader environmental challenges.

History of World Soil Day

World Soil Day was officially launched in 2014, was supported by the International Union of Soil Sciences. The initiative also involved Thailand and the Global Soil Partnership of the FAO. Since then, it has gained global recognition and the day is dedicated to raising awareness about soil health.

Goals of World Soil Day

The primary goal is to promote sustainable soil management, which aims to educate the public on the importance of soil. The event encourages best practices in agriculture. It also advocates for policies that protect soil resources. Engaging communities is essential for soil conservation efforts.

World Soil Day features various activities. Workshops, webinars, and discussions are common. Participants from around the world can join online. Local events may be organised in schools and communities. The aim is to encourage a global dialogue on soil health.

GKToday Facts for Exams:

1. IUSS – The International Union of Soil Sciences promotes soil science globally. Established in 1956, it encourages collaboration among soil scientists and encourages research on soil-related issues.
2. FAO – The Food and Agriculture Organization was founded in 1945. It leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition. FAO supports sustainable agricultural practices worldwide.
3. Global Soil Partnership – Established in 2012, this initiative aims to enhance global soil governance. It promotes sustainable soil management and advocates for soil health in policy-making.
4. Soil Erosion – Soil erosion is the removal of topsoil by wind or water. It reduces soil fertility, impacting agricultural productivity and threatening food security globally.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2024

Category: Environment Current Affairs