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What is the role of soil health in sustainable agriculture, and how can we preserve and restore ecosystems?
Soil health refers to the overall functionality and sustainability of soil, focusing on its ability to perform essential functions for both the environment and agriculture. It is a complex concept that includes the physical, chemical, and biological quality of the soil, as well as its role in supporting plant growth, retaining water, promoting biodiversity and nutrient cycling, and contributing to climate change mitigation.
Healthy soil plays a fundamental role in sustainable agriculture in several ways. It supports plant growth and food production by supplying essential nutrients (such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) needed for plant development. Additionally, soil provides stability by anchoring plant roots, offering physical support.
The structure of healthy soil is also crucial for water regulation. It allows for efficient water infiltration, reducing surface runoff and erosion. Furthermore, the ability of soil to absorb rainwater can help mitigate the effects of drought.
Here is a comprehensive review of the soil microbiome and one health
Definitions:
Soil health; is the capacity of soil to function as a vital living system, to sustain plant and animal productivity, maintain or enhance water and air quality, and promote plant and animal health.
One health highlights that human health is not isolated but connected to the health of animals, plants and environments.Problem:
The quality and health of soils are linked to global food and water security, and have important implications for energy security and mitigating climate change. The degradation of soils owing to land-use change, erosion, compaction and pesticide contamination has highlighted the urgent need for sustaining the ecosystem services of soilsSolutions:
Several studies have shown that crop diversification and reductions of synthetic pesticides, mineral fertilizers and intensive tillage can improve soil biodiversity and soil health.In summary, this review demonstrates that soils are a cornerstone of one health and serve as a source and reservoir of pathogens, beneficial microorganisms and the overall microbial diversity in a wide range of organisms and ecosystems.
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