Today, December 5, marks World Soil Day 🌍. It’s the perfect moment to dig into why the very ground beneath our feet is a superhero for life on Earth!
According to the United Nations, over 95% of the world’s food comes from soils. Plus, soils deliver 15 of the 18 essential nutrients that plants need to grow strong and healthy. Yet, climate change and human activities are chipping away at this vital resource, reducing water absorption, fertility, and overall ecosystem health.
This year’s theme, "Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities," shines a spotlight on the amazing power of urban soils. From regulating city temperatures and soaking up stormwater to storing carbon and cleaning the air, healthy soils are the unsung champions of urban life 🏙️💚.
Here’s how urban soils keep our cities thriving:
- Temperature control: Soil and green spaces cool down hot concrete jungles.
- Rainwater absorption: Healthy soils act like sponges, reducing floods and easing stress on drainage systems.
- Carbon storage: Well-maintained soils lock away carbon, helping to fight climate change.
- Air quality improvement: Nutrient-rich soils support plants that filter pollutants and boost our health.
However, urban sprawl, pollution, and intensive agriculture are putting soils at risk. When we pave over land, use too many chemicals, or drain wetlands, we strip away the living layer that supports plants, animals, and people.
On this World Soil Day, let’s give soils the love they deserve: support community gardens, advocate for green roofs, and choose sustainable produce. After all, healthy soils mean healthier cities and a healthier you! 🌱🙌
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
