Why Is Soil Considered A Non-renewable Resource?

Why is soil considered a non-renewable resource?

Soil is a thin layer of material on the earth’s surface covering most land. It is a natural resource containing both organic and inorganic particles. Soil is an important natural resource on earth made up of air, water, and minerals. Soil is one of the most valuable natural resources on the earth. It is a source of food for many living organisms directly or indirectly.

Soil is a Non-renewable Resource

Soil is considered a non-renewable resource meaning once used it cannot be recovered during a human lifespan. Soil takes hundred to million years for replenishing. Fertile soil is in short supply and requires many years to form back. Due to erosion, the soil may use its fertility and these soils are no longer of any good use. Soils are used for various human activities such as agriculture, cropping, forestry, and urbanisation. With growing population, the need of sustainable soil practices is needed more than ever. However, the necessity of soil and its usage is often neglected and overlooked as compared to other natural resources. Hence, soil is a non-renewable resource which needs to be preserved and used wisely for a sustainable future.

What are the Necessities of Soil?

There are several needs of soil for human beings, animals, plants, and the overall environment. Soil is important as any other natural resources for living beings. There are many needs and purposes of soil, some of which are:

• Soil is the main source of food production and contributes to food security for humans and other living beings.

• Plants thrive and survive on soil. Their growth and development is dependent on soil.

• Soil is a source of vital nutrient to plants and provides it structural support.

• Soil is an essential material for agriculture and cultivation of crops which is good for humans and some animals.

• Soils contain nutrients that make crops healthy and eatable as food.

• Clay soil are used for making ceramic or pottery items.

• Soil is also a means of filtering and purifying rainwater.

• Soils store excess water which prevents floods and droughts.

• Soil acts as a protector of ground water.

• Soil is also an important item used in construction purposes.

• Soil supports the earth’s biodiversity and our ecosystem.

• Soil is used for several activities like agriculture, forestry, construction, cultivation, etc.

Ways to Protect the Soil

From the reading above, it has been understood the need to protect and save soil. There are some ways by which we can use soil considerately for future needs as well, which are:

• Encouraging and following sustainable soil management practices for a healthy soil.

• Giving preference to suitable and eco-friendly technologies.

• Using the soil and its nutrients wisely.

• Practising crop rotation as this will prevent diseases and insects on the farm.

• Reduction in human activities that can lead to soil erosion.

• Educating farmers the need of sustainable agricultural practices.