FAO Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean
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How does soil degradation affect food security?
The Essential Role of Soils in Agriculture and Human Well-Being
A farmer clearing land where maize is grown. Once the maize has been harvested, the stalks are left in place to prevent soil erosion. Maize acts as a natural fertilizer, and the crop residues help protect the soil from being washed away by rain. ©FAO/Giuseppe Bizzarri
Soils support the food we consume and are fundamental in the fight against climate change. However, the alarming degradation of this resource in Latin America and the Caribbean threatens both the agricultural economy and the quality of life of millions of people.
FAO report Sustainable Soil Management: Opportunities and Recommendations for Decision-Makers highlights the urgent need for action. According to the study, up to 93% of the region's economic activities depend directly on soils, which also play a key role in climate regulation and water filtration. However, 75% of soils in Latin America and the Caribbean are degraded, leading to economic losses of up to USD 60 billion per year due to reduced agricultural productivity.
"Now, more than ever, the role of soils is gaining global recognition among decision-makers, especially in the context of climate change," the report emphasizes.
A farmer working in the fields of Camapara, on the border between Honduras and El Salvador, where traditional and indigenous methods help retain soil moisture. ©FAO/Giuseppe Bizzarri
The report points out that implementing sustainable soil management practices could be one of the most effective solutions. Increasing the carbon sequestration capacity of soils in Latin America and the Caribbean could reduce the region's net greenhouse gas emissions by up to 48%. However, achieving this requires international cooperation, financing programs, and clear regulations to protect natural resources.
"Addressing these challenges requires the political will of decision-makers to take these issues seriously," warns the report. A review of 382 sustainable management initiatives revealed that in 40% of cases, significant improvements in agricultural productivity and water quality were reported.
An investment in the future
Soils are an investment in ensuring food production, combating climate change, and improving the quality of life in rural communities. Adopting sustainable practices preserves the environment and secures a prosperous future for agriculture and society.
A Haiti farmer dugs the soil to sift and pack it into pots. ©FAO/Walter Astrada
Beets and carrots at a fruit stall in a street market in São Paulo. ©FAO/Miguel Schincariol
The report points out that implementing sustainable soil management practices could be one of the most effective solutions. Increasing the carbon sequestration capacity of soils in Latin America and the Caribbean could reduce the region's net greenhouse gas emissions by up to 48%. However, achieving this requires international cooperation, financing programs, and clear regulations to protect natural resources.
"Addressing these challenges requires the political will of decision-makers to take these issues seriously," warns the report. A review of 382 sustainable management initiatives revealed that in 40% of cases, significant improvements in agricultural productivity and water quality were reported.
An investment in the future
Soils are an investment in ensuring food production, combating climate change, and improving the quality of life in rural communities. Adopting sustainable practices preserves the environment and secures a prosperous future for agriculture and society.
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