 
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has sounded a global alarm on the rapid degradation of soils. With a stark warning that 90% of Earth’s land surface could be degraded by 2050, UNESCO emphasizes the urgent need for soil protection and rehabilitation. This call to action was highlighted at an international conference in Agadir, Morocco, where experts and representatives from over thirty countries convened to address this critical issue.
The Scope of Soil Degradation
Current State of Soil Health
According to the World Atlas of Desertification, 75% of the world’s soils are already degraded, affecting 3.2 billion people directly. Soil degradation impacts ecosystems, biodiversity, climate regulation, food production, and water purification. If current trends continue, the proportion of degraded soils is expected to rise to 90% by 2050, posing severe risks to biodiversity and human life.
Major Risks
The degradation of soils leads to a loss of fertile land, reduced agricultural productivity, and increased vulnerability to extreme weather events. This has significant implications for food security, economic stability, and environmental health. Poor soil management exacerbates these problems, making the need for immediate action even more pressing.
UNESCO’s Call to Action
The International Conference in Agadir
On July 1, 2024, UNESCO, in collaboration with Morocco’s National Agency for the Development of Oasis and Argan Zones (ANDZOA), organized an international conference on soil health in Agadir. The conference brought together soil experts, policymakers, and representatives from over thirty countries to discuss strategies for improving soil protection and rehabilitation.
Key Objectives
The discussions at the conference led to an action plan based on three key objectives:
- Improving soil protection and rehabilitation.
- Filling scientific knowledge gaps.
- Strengthening the commitment of young people and communities through education and training programs.
Strategies for Soil Protection
Establishing a World Soil Health Index
UNESCO plans to support its Member States by establishing a “world soil health index.” This index will be a standardized measure for assessing and comparing soil quality across different regions and ecosystems. It will help identify trends in soil degradation or improvement, highlight areas most at risk, and evaluate the effectiveness of soil management practices.
Pilot Program for Sustainable Soil Management
UNESCO will launch a pilot initiative for the sustainable management of soils and landscapes in around ten natural sites protected under its Biosphere Reserves program. The goal is twofold: to assess the effectiveness of current management methods and to implement successful methods in other regions worldwide. Site managers, government agencies, conservation organizations, and indigenous communities will receive training to equip them with the necessary tools to protect this essential resource.
Education and Awareness
Raising awareness and involving younger generations is crucial for the long-term success of soil conservation efforts. UNESCO’s educational component will focus on informing the public about the importance of soil health and engaging young people in conservation activities. By fostering a deeper understanding of soil science, UNESCO aims to inspire future generations to prioritize soil protection.
The Role of Soil Science in Human Security
Importance of Healthy Soils
Healthy soils are vital for maintaining ecosystems and biodiversity. They play a crucial role in regulating the climate, producing food, and purifying water. However, soil degradation undermines these functions, leading to adverse effects on human security and well-being.
Filling Knowledge Gaps
UNESCO is committed to advancing soil science to address the challenges of soil degradation. By filling scientific knowledge gaps, UNESCO aims to provide a stronger foundation for soil management practices. This includes researching the causes and consequences of soil degradation, developing innovative solutions, and sharing best practices globally.
International Collaboration
The 36th MAB Council Session in Morocco
UNESCO will host the 36th Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Council Session in Morocco, in collaboration with ANDZOA. This session will focus on promoting sustainable development through the conservation of biodiversity and the improvement of human-environment interactions. It will also address the role of biosphere reserves in protecting soils and fostering sustainable land management practices.
Global Partnerships
UNESCO actively supports its efforts to combat soil degradation through international partnerships. These collaborations aim to enhance the capacity of Member States to protect and rehabilitate soils. By working together, countries can share knowledge, resources, and technologies to address the global soil crisis effectively.
Conclusion
UNESCO’s warning about the rapid degradation of soils highlights the urgent need for action. With 90% of Earth’s land at risk by 2050, protecting and rehabilitating soils is essential for ensuring biodiversity, human health, and environmental sustainability. The international conference in Agadir and the establishment of a world soil health index are significant steps towards achieving these goals. By prioritizing soil health, filling scientific knowledge gaps, and fostering international collaboration, UNESCO aims to create a sustainable future for all. The organization’s commitment to education and training will ensure that future generations can continue these vital conservation efforts.
