- by Giulia Berti
- 05 Dec 2023
Celebrating World Soil Day: Nurturing a Sustainable Future
Every year on December 5th, the global community comes together to celebrate World Soil Day. This important observance aims to raise awareness about the significance of soil in our lives and promote the sustainable management of this vital natural resource.
Soil is an essential component of our ecosystem, playing a crucial role in supporting plant growth, filtering water, and storing carbon. However, soil degradation has become a pressing issue worldwide due to factors such as deforestation, overuse of chemical fertilizers, and improper land management practices. This degradation not only threatens our food security but also contributes to climate change and biodiversity loss.
Climate action and the soil
This year, the significance of World Soil Day is amplified as it coincides with the crucial climate conference, CO28. The world is facing an unprecedented climate crisis, and soil degradation exacerbates this pressing issue.
Factors such as deforestation, chemical-intensive agriculture, and poor land management practices contribute to the loss of soil fertility and biodiversity, while releasing significant amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. These challenges highlight the urgent need for decision makers and global leaders to address the interlinked issues of climate change and soil health.
The benefits of organic farming
Organic farming is an agricultural approach that prioritizes the use of natural and regenerative methods, avoiding synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. This farming method not only promotes healthier and more sustainable food production but also offers significant benefits for soil health, including:
- Preservation of soil biodiversity and microbial activity.
- Avoidance of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides that can harm soil organisms.
- Utilization of practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and composting to improve soil structure and nutrient cycling.
- Reduction of erosion through the use of organic mulches and cover crops.
- Enhancement of soil moisture management and water retention capacity.
- Promotion of soil aeration, allowing for better root development and nutrient uptake.
- Sequestration of carbon in the soil, helping mitigate climate change.
- Support for long-term soil health, fertility, and resilience.
- Contribution to sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural systems.
- Protection of water quality by reducing the risk of chemical runoff.
By prioritizing the principles of organic farming, we at EatFRESH are proud to work exclusively with certified organic farmers. This commitment ensures that the food we provide not only nourishes our bodies but also supports the health and vitality of the soil on which it is grown.
Discover our Hong Kong grown organic vegetables and fruits today!