World Soil Health Day is celebrated at Khadur Sahib on 5th December

*World Soil Health Day is celebrated at Khadur Sahib on 5th December* 

 

Tarn Taran, 06 December :

 

Every year on December 05, people around the globe come together to celebrate World Soil Day (WSD), an occasion that sheds light on the critical role soil plays in sustaining life on Earth. This annual event serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between soil, plants, animals, and humans, emphasising on the need to preserve and protect this invaluable resource.

Each year, World Soil Day is assigned a specific theme that focuses on a particular aspect of soil health and conservation. These themes are carefully chosen to address current challenges and promote sustainable practices.

*Significance of World Soil Day* 

Soil is a finite resource and a fundamental component of the natural environment. It plays a crucial role in food production, water filtration, carbon storage, and supporting biodiversity. However, soil degradation, erosion, and pollution pose serious threats to its health and productivity. World Soil Day aims to highlight these issues and advocate for sustainable soil management practices to ensure the well-being of current and future generations.

*Theme for World Soil Day 2023* : Soil and water, a source of life

According to the United Nations (UN), the theme for World Soil Day 2023 is ‘Soil and water, a source of life.’ Explaining the theme, the UN writes, “Our planet’s survival depends on the precious link between soil and water.Over 95 percent of our food originates from these two fundamental resources. Soil water, vital for nutrient absorption by plants, binds our ecosystems together. This symbiotic relationship is the foundation of our agricultural systems.It further says that in the face of climate change and human activity, our soils are being degraded, putting excessive pressure on our water resources. Erosion disrupts the natural balance, reducing water infiltration and availability for all forms of life.Sustainable soil management practices, such as minimum tillage, crop rotation, organic matter addition, and cover cropping, improve soil health, reduce erosion and pollution, and enhance water infiltration and storage. These practices also preserve soil biodiversity, improve fertility, and contribute to carbon sequestration, playing a crucial role in the fight against climate change.

World Soil Day 2023 (WSD) and its campaign aim to raise awareness of the importance and relationship between soil and water in achieving sustainable and resilient agrifood systems. WSD is a unique global platform that not only celebrates soils but also empowers and engages citizens around the world to improve soil health.