FAO Liaison Office in New York

12/06/2024 | Press release | Archived content

World Soil Day 2024 Closing Remarks

World Soil Day 2024 Closing Remarks

Guangzhou Qu, Director of the FAO Liaison Office of the United Nations in New York

06/12/2024

Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

  1. It is an honor to close this year's World Soil Day 2024, marking its tenth anniversary.
  2. Soil is far more than the dirt beneath our feet, it is a living, breathing ecosystem that supports agriculture, biodiversity, water cycles, and even our climate. As we confront challenges like climate change, food insecurity, biodiversity loss, and land degradation, protecting and sustainably managing soils has never been more urgent.
  3. This year's theme, "Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage," underscores the power of reliable soil data in shaping informed decisions. Whether it's improving agricultural productivity, mitigating climate impacts, or designing resilient infrastructure, accurate soil information empowers farmers, practitioners, and policymakers to make the right decisions at the right time.
  4. I extend my warmest congratulations to the recipients of this year's prestigious awards, the 2024 King Bhumibol World Soil Day Award and the Glinka World Soil Prize. Their dedication and efforts to strengthen food security and advance climate resilience by championing soil health and sustainable soil management are an inspiration to us all.
  5. These achievements remind us of the transformative potential of dedication and collaboration in sustainable soil management.
  6. As part of FAO's efforts, we are hosting the International Soil and Water Forum 2024, co-organized by FAO and the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of the Royal Thai Government. Running from 9 to 11 December, this hybrid event will unveil the world's first high-level action plan to halt and reverse soil degradation and water scarcity, essential steps toward a healthier environment and greater food security.
  7. As we conclude this year's World Soil Day celebrations, let us carry forward these critical lessons:
    • Measure soil health with precision.
    • Monitor its changes with vigilance.
    • Manage it with care for the current and future generations.
  8. Together, we possess the tools, knowledge, and commitment to make soils a cornerstone of life on Earth. By transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, we can support the 2030 Agenda for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, ensuring that no one is left behind.
  9. Let us seize this opportunity and boost this momentum. Together, we can make sustainable soil management a reality for all.
  10. Thank you for your participation and your valuable contributions!