Innovative Soil-plant Systems for Sustainable Agricultural Practices
Proceedings of an International Workshop : 3-7 June 2002, Izmir, Turkey
Description:... Interest in the quality and health of soil has grown with the recognition that soil is vital to production of food and fiber, the smooth functioning of the ecosystem, and overall environmental stability. Agriculture needs economic soil management practices that provide sufficient food and yet maintain environmental stability, ecological integrity, and the quality of essential resources. Strategiesfor sustainable management include conserving soil organic matter, minimising erosion, balancing production with environmental needs, and making better use of renewable resources. In this regard, soil health is a major indicator of sustainable management. Criteria for indicators of soil health are useful in defining ecosystem processes and integrating physical, chemical and biological properties; sensitivity to management and climatic variations; accessibility and usefulness to agricultural specialists, producers, conservationists, and policy makers. Although soils have biological, chemical and physical properties within a given climate and ecosystem, the ultimate determinant of soil quality and health is the land manager. The assessment of health and quality of soil is the primary indicator of sustainable management and environmental remediation. Examples given include approaches for assessing soil health, defining the economic and environmental sustainability of land management practices and translating our science into practice.
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