Date: Thursday, 5th December 2024; 10th Anniversary.
Founder: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
Objectives:
World Soil Day is observed annually for the following purposes:
- to recognize the importance of soil that is key to sustaining life on Earth through its contribution to agricultural development, essential ecosystem functions, and food security,
- to raise awareness of land degradation, drought, and desertification which pose serious challenges to the sustainable development of all countries,
- to highlight that sustainability of soil is key to addressing the pressure of a growing population, mitigating biodiversity loss, and maintaining healthy ecosystems,
- to promote sustainable use and management of limited soil resources.
Inception:
World Soil Day was officially held for the first time on 5 December 2014.
History:
In 2002, the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) made a resolution proposing that 5 December be marked as World Soil Day to celebrate the importance of soil as a critical component of the natural system and as a vital contributor to human well-being.
In June 2013, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the UN Conference unanimously endorsed World Soil Day. In December 2013, the 68th UN General Assembly adopted a resolution (A/RES/68/232), officially declaring 5 December as World Soil Day. The date of 5 December was chosen because it corresponds with the birthday of H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, King of Thailand, who was one of the main proponents of this initiative.
Why do we mark World Soil Day?
Soil is one of the most significant parts of the ecosystem. Around 95% of our food comes from soils. Soil is home to more than 1/4 of Earth’s biodiversity, yet we know only 1% of this universe. Soil organisms help soils store carbon, nurture plants, degrade contaminants, and reduce GHG emissions. Nowadays, soil biodiversity is under pressure worldwide since unsustainable soil management has affected life below ground. Actions should be taken to protect soil biodiversity!
Annual theme of the World Soil Day:
2023 theme: “Soil and Water, A Source of Life.”
2022 theme: “Soils: Where Food Begins”.
2021 theme: “Halt Soil Salinization, Boost Soil Productivity”
2020 theme: “Keep Soil Alive, Protect Soil Biodiversity”
2019 theme: “Stop Soil Erosion, Save Our Future”
2018 theme: “Be the Solution to Soil Pollution”
2017 theme: “Caring for the Planet Starts from the Ground”
2016 theme: “Soils & Pulses: Symbiosis for Life”
2015 theme: “Healthy Soils for A Healthy Life”
Official websites:
www.un.org/en/observances/world-soil-day
www.fao.org/world-soil-day/en/
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