A. Soil degradation is the decline in soil condition caused by its improper use or poor management, usually for agricultural, industrial, or urban purposes. It is a critical environmental problem that threatens global food security, biodiversity, and the regulation of the Earth''s climate. This deterioration involves the loss of the physical, chemical, and biological qualities of soil, which ultimately reduces its capacity to support plant life and perform its essential ecosystem functions.
B. The primary drivers of soil degradation are human activities. Deforestation and unsustainable agricultural practices, such as intensive tillage, monocropping, and the overuse of chemical fertilisers and pesticides, are major culprits. These practices can lead to soil erosion, where the fertile topsoil is washed or blown away, and to the depletion of organic matter and essential nutrients. Other causes include overgrazing, industrial pollution, and soil sealing due to urban expansion.
C. The consequences of soil degradation are severe. Reduced soil fertility leads to lower crop yields, directly impacting food production and the livelihoods of farmers. Degraded soil is less able to absorb and retain water, which increases the risk of flooding and drought and reduces the replenishment of groundwater. Furthermore, soil is a massive carbon sink, second only to the oceans. When soil degrades, it releases stored carbon into the atmosphere in the form of carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.
D. Reversing soil degradation is possible through the adoption of sustainable land management practices. Techniques such as conservation tillage, cover cropping, crop rotation, and agroforestry can help to rebuild soil health by increasing organic matter, improving soil structure, and enhancing biodiversity. These practices, often referred to as regenerative agriculture, not only restore the land''s productivity but also enhance its ability to sequester carbon, making soil restoration a key strategy in the fight against climate change.
IELTS Practice Tests Practice Test / Part 1 #163
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