Soil and the intensification of agriculture for global food security.

Abstract in brief

• Soils are a highly complex and vital ecosystem that support food production and other environmental services, but are under increasing threat from human activity.
• The rapid growth of the human population and the push for higher crop yields have led to the overuse and degradation of soils, causing issues like erosion, loss of organic matter, and environmental harm.
• Addressing soil degradation is crucial for sustainable agriculture and long-term global food security, requiring recognition of its economic and ecological importance beyond immediate benefits.