Sustainable soil management for food-sensitive agriculture

Not only the quantity and diversity of food that is responsible for a nutrient-rich diet, but also the nutrient content of cereals, fruit and vegetables. Healthy, nutrient-rich soil is the basis for this.

Validity period: August 2024 – Juli 2027
Budget: 1.5 Mio. €

Background

The undersupply of many people with important minerals and nutrients (hidden hunger) is a common cause of inadequate physical and mental development in children and illnesses in adults, with women being more affected than men. In addition to dietary diversification, the nutrient content of cereals and vegetables is also relevant for the supply of nutrients. The nutrient content of crops can be increased through targeted measures during cultivation.

Goal

The aim of this project is to impart knowledge about the relationship between soil health and the nutrient content of arable crops and to improve soil health in the long term. With funding from the BMEL, the FAO has developed a handbook that provides the knowledge base for disseminating the relevant techniques to farmers via advisory services. The FAO's established “Global Soil Doctors Program” trains multipliers and offers training measures for farmers.

The handbook and the experience gained from this project will be disseminated at a global level via the Global Soil Partnership.

Partner Countries: Colombia, Mexiko, Burkina Faso

Operating Oragnisation: Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO)