Soil, the great ally to feed the world – #WorldSoilDay

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[:en]Since 2014, every December 5th is celebrated the world soil day with the aim of focusing attention on the importance of healthy soil and promoting sustainable management of soil resources. The soil is a finite resource, so its care is essential.

In order to carry out these objectives, it is necessary to be clear about the 3 main measures: prevention of erosion, improvement of vegetation cover and replacement of nutrients.

Erosion prevention: Erosion is one of the main problems that exists and we have to solve it. Wind or water are usually the most important factors, causing the loss of organic matter and minerals, therefore, fertility. To remedy this, it is advisable not to exhaust the soil by rotating crops, avoiding leaving the soil bare and avoiding overgrazing, among other prevention measures.

Improvement of vegetation cover: If the soil contains a correct plant cover, it can be an indication of being in good condition. The vegetal covers produce the improvement of the retention of soil moisture, favor the microbiological process due to an increase in organic matter and reduce erosion, mainly.

Nutrient replacement: Currently, the replacement of nutrients is being much lower than the amount extracted, and this creates a big problem since the plants need those nutrients for their correct development. Currently the addition of biofertilizers is picking up a run. A natural method that helps plants to develop properly without nutrient deficit.

 

Misuse of the soil and its resources can cause the loss of diversity of microorganisms present, which in turn affect multiple ecosystem functions, such as nutrient retention and cycling, animal and plant health, and greenhouse gas emissions...

 

A healthy soil contains a large number of living microorganisms. To be exact, a quarter of the planet's biodiversity consists of organisms found in the soil, forming complex and diverse communities.

These communities are made up of fungus, bacteria, worms or insects among other macro and microorganisms. These in turn form microhabitats where they perform all their essential functions for proper functioning of the soil balance.

In IDEAGRO We take care of being able to meet the objectives and carry out the necessary measures to promote sustainable and responsible land use. Trials with biostimulants or the use of microorganisms for the benefit of plants are our day to day. The set of aspects and improvements achieved with these tests translates into a healthier plant/crop, with a greater nutritional contribution, also achieving a greater resistance to diseases and higher productive yields.

We participate in the organization of the I International Microbiome Forum, an event in which the most innovative aspects related to research in the application of microorganisms to agriculture and the great uncertainty existing about the management, application and current legislation regarding this type of product was resolved.

We are currently working on projects like Life Resilience, for the prevention of Xylella fastidiosa, in the development of resistance inducers for grapevine wood diseases, in the use of entomopathogenic fungi for the control of the olive fly (Bactrocera oleae), among many more projects related to the use of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi...).

More than 33% of the planet's soils are degraded and the percentage could reach 90% in 2050 if there is no remedy. Therefore, the UN General Assembly approved this day, to create awareness and start a work of soil care and recovery

Preserving and promoting soil biodiversity is essential to improve soil health and ensure an improved food production system and rural subsistence in a healthy environment.[:]

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