Global Soil Degradation: Status, Drivers, and Solutions
John Reganold, Soil Science and Agroecology at Washington State University / Visiting Research Scholar supported by the Peter Wall Institute for Advanced Studies
Friday, October 22, 3:00 – 4:00 pm
In-person & via Zoom (see details below on how to join)
Abstract: At least 33% of global cropland soils are moderately or highly degraded, with the most significant causes being soil erosion, loss of organic matter, nutrient imbalance, and urbanization. Drivers of global soil degradation are diverse and include, but are not limited to, population dynamics, consumption, inequality, education, and farming practices. The existence of innovative agricultural practices and systems that mitigate or prevent soil degradation suggests that technical obstacles are not the greatest barrier. Barriers to farmers adopting these sustainable practices include powerful vested interests and existing policies, a lack of information and knowledge, weak infrastructure and other economic challenges, and misperceptions and cultural biases. To halt or reverse soil degradation will require mobilizing the full arsenal of effective policies, scientific and socioeconomic advances, farmer ingenuity, and public engagement.
How to Join
In-person MCML 102 Please note that participation will be limited due to the capacity of the room. Email sandra.brown@ubc.ca to save your spot.
Livestreaming via zoom is available for this presentation; pre-registration required.
https://ubc.zoom.us/meeting/register/u5MvduurrT4oHNF6SJLdx8V34tYVfePOWLyj
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Recording will also be done for this presentation and made available to PRSSS members through their website. Please see https://www.prsss.ca/ for more information. Please note that access to these videos will be password protected.