The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has warned that 90 percent of the planet's land surface could be degraded by 2050, posing major risks to biodiversity and human life, Report informs via The Observer.
At an international conference in Morocco, Audrey Azoulay, director-general of UNESCO, appealed to the organization's 194 member states to improve soil protection and rehabilitation. She said UNESCO is also undertaking several actions to fill the scientific knowledge gaps in this field.
"Soil plays a crucial role in sustaining life on earth. Yet it is still often neglected or poorly managed. UNESCO is calling on the international community to make this a priority. With sixty years of experience in soil science, our organization will help states to advance knowledge and train professionals so that the necessary measures can be taken," announced Azoulay at the UNESCO International Conference on Soils on Monday.