A Global Gathering to Tackle the Planet’s Soil Crisis Is Underway in Mongolia
In Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, policy makers, scientists and global negotiators are gathering to convey an urgent message: The world’s rangelands, which make up about half of Earth’s land surface, are in trouble. But these same lands offer an opportunity. If, collectively, farmers and
The gathering in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, highlights the critical state of the world's rangelands, which cover nearly half of the Earth's land surface. Soil degradation, overgrazing, and climate change are major concerns, threatening not only the livelihoods of millions of people but also the planet's ecological health. The fact that this issue is being addressed at a global level underscores its significance and the need for collective action.
The rangelands play a crucial role in sequestering carbon, supporting biodiversity, and providing ecosystem services. However, their degradation can have far-reaching consequences, including loss of fertile land, decreased water quality, and reduced agricultural productivity. The negotiations in Mongolia aim to find solutions to these problems, emphasizing the importance of sustainable land management practices and the involvement of local communities, farmers, and policymakers.
As the talks progress, it's essential to watch for concrete commitments and actionable plans to address the soil crisis. The outcome of this gathering could influence global climate and environmental policies, particularly in the lead-up to COP28. Will the participants agree on specific targets for restoring degraded lands, promoting sustainable grazing practices, and supporting climate-resilient agriculture? The world will be watching to see if this gathering translates into tangible progress on the ground.
Originally reported by insideclimatenews.org. EarthNews adds analysis for climate & energy readers.