Dependent on soil
99% of what we consume, fruits, vegetables, and meats, need soil to grow, which makes us dependent on soil. Soil is one of the most valuable commodities for the survival of the human race. If we were to consider how much agricultural land is available to us to grow our foods, we quickly realize that we do not have much of it, and maintaining our soil health should be our priority.
Earth's surface
71% of the planet Earth is covered by water. Out of the remaining 29%, 3% is attributed to Glaciers, and 6% is Barren land, which leaves us with about 20% of habitable land. Once we have removed global urban areas and forests, that leaves 10% of the Earth’s surface for agriculture, of which 2% is for Cropland. That represents the size of the United States.
The green Revolution
The green revolution, which gained considerable momentum in the early ’50s, was a turning point in agriculture. It led to the mass introduction of chemical fertilizers and agri-chemicals. Although the short-term effects of this era saved millions out of famine and offered food security for many, the long-term effects of using these types of chemicals were never appropriately considered. The impact of these new harvesting techniques would have detrimental repercussions on soil health.
Essential
The overuse of inorganic fertilizer has made its mark. Agricultural lands have lost their once humus-rich topsoil making it harder to grow crops. Humus-rich topsoil is essential to thriving microbial activity and fertile soil.
Sustainable life on earth requires a humus-rich topsoil.
Heavy fertilizing
Pre-’60s era, the topsoil was rich in humus with 7-12% organic matter. The cumulated years of heavy fertilizing has drastically changed that. Today, a grower is lucky if his topsoil is anywhere near 2% organic matter.
By 2050
With 9 billion people expected to be living on this planet by 2050, we must implement responsible and sustainable practices to cultivate the agriculture soil with the soil’s best interest in mind.
Humic Land
Contact us now, to find out how Humic Land can make a difference for you and your soil.