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Urbanisation and soil sealing

ITPS Soil Letters #5









Full ITPS soil letters series



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    Soils, where food begins: how can soils continue to sustain the growing need for food production in the current fertilizer crisis?
    ITPS Soil Letters #6
    2023
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    Soils are directly and indirectly involved in the provision of most ecosystem services vital for humans, including food production, which is fundamental for food security and sovereignty. Soils are the basis for producing more than 95 percent of our food. However, one-third of the world’s soils are degraded to some extent due to erosion, loss of organic carbon and biodiversity, salinization, acidification, compaction, and nutrient imbalance, among other causes. This ITPS Soil Letters reflects on the close link between soil degrading processes and fertility loss and proposes a portfolio of solutions focused on soil health with the ultimate goal of achieving food security.
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    A call to protect the world’s food basket: black soils
    ITPS Soil Letters #7
    2023
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    Black soils have played a crucial role in global agriculture for many decades, supporting the production of cereals, tuber crops, oilseeds, pastures, and forage systems. Despite covering only 5.6 percent of the global land area, these soils not only provide sustenance for the 223 million people residing on them but also contribute to the global economy through the export of various commodities. However, this invaluable resource is facing multiple threats due to land use changes, unsustainable management practices, and excessive use of agrochemicals. Most black soils have already lost at least half of their carbon stocks, suffer from moderate to severe erosion, nutrient imbalances, acidification, compaction, and loss of soil biodiversity. This ITPS letter emphasizes the need for independent policies and agricultural development programs to address these threats. It highlights the importance of adopting good practices and cropping systems, and proposes a series of actions and recommendations to ensure the sustainable use of black soils.
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    Biochar in sustainable soil management: potential and constraints
    ITPS Soil Letters #8
    2023
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    Biochar, derived from the pyrolysis of organic materials, is a decomposure-resistant soil amendment that enhances fertility, boosts agricultural productivity, and sequesters carbon in the soil for thousands of years. Its positive effects include improved nutrient availability, increased pH, and enhanced water retention capacity. Biochar can reduce nutrient losses, improve soil health, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. While its effectiveness may vary, targeted application could be a promising strategy, taking into account factors such as soil type and specific environmental conditions.

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