International symposium in Agadir on the importance of soil in sustainable development
On Monday, July 1, an international symposium on the theme “Rooted in Resilience: Discovering the Importance of Soil in Sustainable Development” opened in Agadir, with the participation of a group of international figures, experts and researchers in the field.
Organized in partnership between UNESCO and the National Agency for the Development of Oases and Argan Tree Areas, on the sidelines of the 36th session of the International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere Programme (1-5 July), this meeting will discuss the interconnections between soil and groundwater, soil management practices and the cultural dimensions of soil science in light of climate change.
Participants in this meeting will also discuss integrated landscape management, soil restoration techniques, combating desertification and improving soil resistance to drought and floods.
In a speech on the occasion, the Director General of the National Agency for the Development of Oasis and Argan Tree Areas, Latifa Yaakoubi, highlighted that Morocco is rich in soil diversity and natural environments that represent a valuable capital. She said that “our fertile soil contributes greatly to national food security,” noting that Moroccan biodiversity is also a major asset that provides a variety of plant and animal species, contributes to environmental balances and provides resources for the local population, agriculture and tourism.
The Director-General of the Agency also noted that many challenges related to soil degradation, particularly desertification, soil erosion and loss of biodiversity, must be addressed, stressing that public authorities are aware of these challenges and have launched several initiatives to preserve soil and biodiversity.
“This meeting certainly highlights the various critical aspects of the link between soil, biodiversity, landscape management and water, and is an opportunity to focus on the best practices of local communities, and on the progress made in the field of scientific research that will illuminate our path towards a sustainable future,” she added.
For her part, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Research and Natural Sciences, Lydia Arthur Britto, highlighted the close link between soil and sustainable development, affirming UNESCO’s commitment to strengthening joint action to protect world heritage in this area, which would address the problem of soil erosion.
Regarding the situation in Africa, Ms. Brito drew attention to the factors that make populations more vulnerable, particularly due to the alarming land degradation, noting that desertification is still spreading dangerously, affecting large areas of fertile land.
She said, "UNESCO calls for the mobilization of the international community, which must act urgently and recognize this problem," highlighting Morocco's valuable contribution to the protection of biodiversity.
The programme of this event includes discussion sessions focusing in particular on “Soil health in the face of global climate change – challenges and opportunities”, “Soil and biodiversity”, “Soil at the heart of integrated landscape management” and “Education and culture in the field of soil science”.
Source: websites