Soil – A Precious Natural Resource
National Research Programme “Sustainable Use of Soil as a Resource”
Soil is more than the basis for “prime” development land or arable land. Soil is also a habitat and source of biodiversity. It plays an important role in the natural water balance and regulates nutrients and harmful substances. Our view of the soil is often superficial – literally. However, it is well worth our while to take a look below the surface. The importance of the soil for life on Earth is underestimated. Intact soil is an essential basis of life.