The Vital Role of Soil in Our Ecosystem and Food Security

Soil is a crucial natural resource, essential for food production and ecosystem health. It plays a significant role in regulating climate and is a non-renewable resource. However, soil degradation due to human activities and climate change poses a threat to its sustainability. Strategies like planting vegetation, supporting healthy farming practices, and using earthworms can help preserve soil. Raising awareness about soil conservation is vital for future food security.

What percentage of our food is directly or indirectly produced by soil?

• 100%

• 95%

• 75%

• 50%

Which of the following is NOT a component of soil?

• Minerals

• Water

• Air

• Plastic

How does healthy soil contribute to water management?

• By increasing water pollution

• By absorbing more water during rainy seasons

• By reducing water availability

• By causing more floods

What percentage of annual global emissions from fossil fuels is removed by soils?

• 15%

• 10%

• 35%

• 25%

What is a major cause of soil degradation?

• Natural disasters

• Excessive rainfall

• Overuse of fertilizers and pesticides

• Lack of sunlight

How much of the world's topsoil has been lost in the last 150 years?

• All

• Two-thirds

• Half

• One-third

What is the estimated number of years left for agricultural soil on the planet?

• 100 years

• 70 to 80 years

• 45 to 60 years

• 20 to 30 years

What percentage of the world's biomass insects have disappeared in the past 30 years?

• 70%

• 80%

• 50%

• 60%

Which organism is considered the best soil engineer?

• Beetles

• Termites

• Earthworms

• Ants

What is one way to help preserve soil?

• Plant grass and trees

• Remove all vegetation

• Increase pesticide use

• Use more chemical fertilizers