World Soil Day

World Soil Day History

World Soil Day seeks to raise awareness about the importance of healthy soils for food security, environmental stability, and sustainable development. The event aims to encourage soil conservation, promote sustainable land management, and advocate for efficient utilization of natural resources. Healthy soils play a crucial role in supporting food production, ecosystem services, and climate regulation, thereby contributing significantly to human well-being and economic prosperity.

The idea of World Soil Day originated in 2002 at the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS), and it gained recognition by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization in 2013. The significance of World Soil Day is particularly relevant in the U.S., given the country's vast agricultural lands that feed millions of people both domestically and internationally. Additionally, America's soil resources contribute to our nation's energy and water security, economic development, carbon sequestration, and overall environmental resilience. World Soil Day in the U.S. serves as an opportunity to emphasize the need for effective soil management practices and greater appreciation of our country's natural resources.

World Soil Day is observed in America through various events, educational initiatives, and advocacy campaigns. These activities engage local communities, farmers, schools, research institutions, and governments in efforts to enhance public understanding of the value and function of soils. Examples of such events include workshops, farm tours, soil health demonstrations, and soil-themed art contests, all designed to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices for soil conservation. World Soil Day is observed annually on December 5th.

World Soil Day facts

• The theme for World Soil Day in 2024 was Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage. In 2023 the theme 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 is a resource that is home to more than 25% of the Earth's biodiversity and life.

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

Top things to do in the US 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.
• Watch a film or documentary on soil conservation and preservation. Here are our suggestions:
  Kiss the Ground (2020)
  Living Soil (2018)
  Dirt! The Movie (2009)
• Encourage your local community to come together and start a community garden to promote soil health and sustainability. You can educate participants about the importance of soil and teach them gardening techniques.

World Soil Day references