World Soil Day

World Soil Day History

World Soil Day highlights the importance of healthy soil for a sustainable global environment. The day aims to raise awareness about soil's crucial role in food security, ecosystem functions, and climate change mitigation. Through various events and activities, World Soil Day encourages people worldwide to learn about responsible soil management and promote sustainable soil practices.

The establishment of World Soil Day dates back to 2002 when the International Union for Soil Sciences proposed a global day to celebrate the significance of soil as a critical component of the Earth's ecosystem. In 2013, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated December 5th as World Soil Day in honour of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand, who was leading in promoting soil resources. Within the European Union context, an increasing focus on sustainable agriculture and goals in the European Green Deal acknowledges the importance of soil conservation and restoration to combat climate change, reduce soil degradation, and improve food production.

Various events, including conferences, workshops, and educational activities, are organized to observe World Soil Day in the European Union. These events emphasize the importance of preserving and improving the soil for future generations and share practical solutions for sustainable soil management. European institutions, governments, and non-governmental organizations collaborate to raise awareness about soil-related issues, create policies, and promote sustainable agriculture practices, further strengthening the commitment to preserving and enhancing soil quality in the region.

World Soil Day facts

• The theme for World Soil Day in 2023 was Keep soil alive, protect biodiversity.
• According to the U.N, an estimated 90% of organisms live or spend part of their life cycle in soil.
• As water seeps through layers of soil, it gets purified. Soil microbes act like a filter, cleaning the water before it reaches groundwater reserves.
• Soil contamination is a major issue in the European Union, with an estimated 2.8 million sites potentially contaminated due to industrial activities.
• Around 40% of the EU's land area is used for agricultural purposes, requiring healthy and fertile soils for optimal production.

In the News and Trending in the EU for World Soil Day

Top things to do in the EU for World Soil Day

• Practice soil conservation and preservation in your community by using mulch in your lawn. You can also plant cover crops which will help manage soil erosion and preserve soil quality.
• Help promote and raise awareness about World Soil Day. The Food and Agriculture Organization site has posters and Materials that can aid in the campaign to highlight the importance of soil.
• Engage with policymakers and relevant stakeholders to advocate for sustainable soil management policies and practices. Write letters or petitions to local representatives, urging them to prioritize soil health in agricultural policies and land-use planning.
• Utilize social media platforms, websites, and local media outlets to disseminate information about the significance of soil health. Share relevant articles, videos, or infographics that highlight the role of soil in food security, biodiversity, and climate change mitigation.