A Call to Preserve Soil Health: Insights from Radio Liban with Dr. Hadi Jaafar
Cultivating Earth’s Resilience: Insights from World Soil Day with an Expert Voice hosted by Yara Hamadeh
On December 5, 2023, Radio Liban’s “Hawa al Chabab” program, hosted by Ms. Yara Hamadeh, marked World Soil Day with a special guest, Dr. Hadi Jaafar, Associate Professor and Chair at the Department of Agriculture, American University of Beirut. In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Jaafar underscored the pivotal role soil plays in sustaining life on Earth.
World Soil Day is an annual event celebrated on December 5th to raise awareness about the importance of soil conservation and sustainable land management practices. It serves as a platform to highlight the critical role soil plays in supporting life on Earth, from providing essential nutrients for plant growth to serving as a natural water filter and supporting biodiversity.
Dr. Jaafar emphasized the intrinsic link between soil and the life cycle, highlighting its significance in ensuring water management and quality. Lebanon faces challenges in soil conservation. Issues such as improper waste management, unregulated quarries, deforestation, rapid urbanization, pesticide overuse, and contamination from hospital waste pose serious threats to soil health. Nevertheless, who bears the responsibility for addressing these challenges? Dr. Jaafar stressed the pivotal role of people, calling for concerted efforts in schools and universities to raise awareness about soil conservation. Furthermore, he emphasized the need for stringent enforcement and revision of existing environmental laws to protect soil resources.
To combat these challenges effectively, Dr. Jaafar proposed a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, enhancing research on soil dynamics and conservation strategies is essential. Secondly, leveraging social media platforms for widespread awareness campaigns can mobilize public support for soil protection initiatives. Lastly, investing in research and education is paramount to safeguarding soil and securing its future for generations to come.
As we celebrate Soil Water Day, collectively we can embrace our roles as stewards of the Earth, and can pave the way for a sustainable future where soil, our most precious resource, thrives.