FAO Organizes the 10th Meeting of the Global Soil Information System Initiative: A Critical Step Towards Sustainable Soil Management
In the framework of international efforts to promote sustainable soil management and address the challenges associated with climate change, the FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, hosted the 10th meeting of the Global Soil Information System (GLOSIS) from January 15 to 17. Organized by the Global Soil Partnership (GSP) of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the event saw the participation of Morocco, represented by Dr. Rachid Mousadek , a researcher at the National Institute of Agricultural Research (INRA), ICARDA, and Chair of the Global Soil Initiative for FAO in the MENA region.
This important event brought together a select group of global experts and stakeholders from various sectors to discuss the latest developments in soil information systems, their critical role in enhancing soil health, promoting sustainable land management, and ensuring climate change adaptation.
Morocco’s Contributions to Soil Management
During the meeting, Dr. Rachid Mousadek highlighted Morocco’s extensive experience in soil management, showcasing innovative models of collaboration between national and international stakeholders. He emphasized ongoing efforts in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, as well as INRA, ICARDA, OCP, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), the Al Moutmir Initiative, and the Tourba Program.
Discussions focused on pioneering initiatives such as soil fertility mapping and the adoption of sustainable practices, particularly within the framework of South-South cooperation. These initiatives aim to boost agricultural productivity while preserving soil health and its natural resources, thereby contributing to global objectives like achieving Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) and mapping soil carbon.
Innovation in Soil Data Management
The meeting explored modern tools that support soil data management and analysis. Dr.Mousadek presented a comprehensive vision of how advanced technologies can be leveraged to improve soil understanding and guide sustainable decision-making. He also addressed the importance of enhancing international collaboration to develop integrated soil information systems that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030.
Soil: The Core of Sustainable Agriculture
The discussions underscored that soil is not merely a natural resource but the foundation of sustainable agriculture and a cornerstone of our capacity to adapt to climate change. These initiatives aim to raise awareness about the importance of soil as a vital component that must be preserved to ensure a sustainable agricultural future for generations to come.
A Call for Cooperation and Joint Action
At the conclusion of the meeting, participants stressed the need to foster innovation and cooperation among countries and institutions to address soil-related challenges. They called for practical steps to protect this precious resource, which is the basis of food security and ecosystem sustainability.
This meeting represents a significant milestone in uniting international efforts to achieve sustainable soil management and secure a better agricultural future. It serves as a platform where visions and ideas converge to inspire collective action for the land, humanity, and the future.
- almouhitalfilahi : adil el arabi