Every year on December 5, people worldwide unite to commemorate World Soil Day (WSD), an occasion dedicated to recognizing the pivotal role soil plays in sustaining life on Earth. This annual event serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate relationship between soil, plants, animals, and humans, underscoring the critical need to preserve and protect this invaluable resource. As we approach World Soil Day 2023, the theme ‘Soil and Water, a Source of Life’ takes center stage, emphasizing the symbiotic connection between these fundamental elements.World Soil Day is a global call to action, urging individuals, communities, and organizations to recognize the profound interdependence of soil and water. As we celebrate ‘Soil and Water, a Source of Life’ in 2023, the campaign seeks to inspire collective efforts towards sustainable soil management, fostering a healthier environment for generations to come. This World Soil Day, let us unite in the mission to nurture the lifeline of our planet – the intricate connection between soil and water.
History of World Soil Day
The roots of World Soil Day trace back to the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS), which recommended the establishment of an international day to celebrate soil in 2002. With leadership from the Kingdom of Thailand and support from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) within the Global Soil Partnership framework, World Soil Day emerged as a global awareness platform. The FAO Conference unanimously endorsed it in June 2013, leading to its official adoption at the 68th UN General Assembly on December 5, 2014.
Significance of World Soil Day
Soil, a finite resource and a fundamental component of the natural environment, plays a crucial role in food production, water filtration, carbon storage, and biodiversity support. Despite its significance, soil faces threats like degradation, erosion, and pollution. World Soil Day aims to highlight these issues and advocate for sustainable soil management practices, ensuring the well-being of current and future generations.
Theme for World Soil Day 2023: Soil and Water, a Source of Life
The United Nations has declared the theme for World Soil Day 2023 as ‘Soil and water, a source of life.’ This theme underscores the vital link between soil and water, which collectively contribute to over 95 percent of our food production. The UN explains that in the face of climate change and human activity, soil degradation puts excessive pressure on water resources. Erosion disrupts the natural balance, reducing water infiltration and availability for all forms of life.
Sustainable soil management practices, including minimum tillage, crop rotation, organic matter addition, and cover cropping, are highlighted as essential. These practices improve soil health, reduce erosion and pollution, and enhance water infiltration and storage. Additionally, they contribute to soil biodiversity, fertility improvement, and carbon sequestration, playing a pivotal role in combating climate change.
World Soil Day 2023 Campaign
World Soil Day 2023 and its campaign aim to raise awareness about the crucial relationship between soil and water in achieving sustainable and resilient agrifood systems. The celebration serves as a unique global platform that not only acknowledges the importance of soils but also empowers and engages citizens worldwide to actively contribute to improving soil health.