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The cradle of food production

Modern farming methods have increased crop yields but also degraded soil quality and its ability to store carbon. Less invasive farming techniques not only promise to reverse this trend, but in fact play a key role in increasing soil organic carbon stores.

Main threats

Monoculture

The cultivation of a single crop over large areas can lead to soil depletion and an increased risk of pests and diseases.

Chemicals

The excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers can lead to soil contamination and damage to beneficial microorganisms in the soil.

Irrigation

Over-irrigation or improper irrigation can lead to salinization of the soil, making it difficult to grow crops.

Soil compaction

Heavy machinery and equipment can compact the soil, making it difficult for roots to penetrate and for water and air to circulate.

Overgrazing

Allowing too many livestock to graze on a small area can lead to soil erosion and damage to vegetation, making it difficult for the land to recover.

Farming techniques

The overuse of certain tilling techniques can cause nutritious topsoil to be removed, affecting soil fertility in the long run.

Ignoring soil health

Not testing soil and not adjusting farming practices to match the soil's needs can lead to the depletion of soil fertility over time.

Key solutions

Soil Preservation Tillage

Conservation tillage

Using farming methods that minimise soil disturbance, such as no-till or reduced tillage. This helps to preserve soil structure and reduce erosion.
Crop rotation Agricultural Land

Crop rotation

Rotating different types of crops on a field can help to improve soil health by adding diversity to the soil’s microorganisms, which can improve nutrient cycling and reduce pests and diseases.
Cover crops legumes Agricultural Land

Cover crops

Planting cover crops, such as legumes, between cash crops can help to add organic matter to the soil, reduce erosion, and add nutrients.
Composting Organic Soil

Composting

Composting organic material, such as crop residues and animal manure, can help to add organic matter and nutrients to the soil.
Irrigation Agricultural Lands

Irrigation management

Using irrigation methods that are appropriate for the soil type and crop can help to conserve water and reduce erosion.
Soil Testing Agronomy

Soil testing

Regularly testing soil to determine nutrient levels and pH can help to ensure that crops are receiving the proper nutrition and can help to prevent over-fertilization.
Pest Management Agricultural Lands

Pest management

Using a combination of techniques to control pests and diseases, such as using natural predators and resistant crop varieties.