The international conference, titled “Rooted in Resilience: Discovering the Importance of Soil in Sustainable Development,” opened its doors on Monday.
Co-organized by UNESCO and Morocco’s National Agency for the Development of Oasis Zones and the Argan Tree (ANDZOA), the conference coincides with the 36th session of the International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB). From July 1st to 5th, discussions will delve into crucial topics like soil-groundwater interactions, sustainable soil management practices, and the cultural aspects of soil science in the face of climate change.
Participants will explore integrated landscape management techniques, soil restoration strategies, and methods to increase soil resilience against drought and floods. This focus on building resilience and combating desertification underscores the urgent need for sustainable soil management practices.
Latifa Yaacoubi, Director General of ANDZOA, highlighted the importance of Morocco’s diverse soils and natural environments as vital assets for national food security. Recognizing the challenges of desertification, soil erosion, and biodiversity loss, she pointed to Morocco’s ongoing initiatives for soil and biodiversity conservation.
“This meeting emphasizes the critical link between soil, biodiversity, landscape management, and water,” Ms. Yaacoubi stated. “It’s an opportunity to learn from local best practices and scientific advancements for a sustainable future.”
Lidia Arthur Brito, Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences at UNESCO, emphasized the strong connection between soil health and sustainable development. She reiterated UNESCO’s commitment to fostering collective action to protect this essential resource and combat soil degradation.
Highlighting the growing threat of desertification in Africa, Ms. Brito called for urgent international mobilization to address this problem. She commended Morocco’s contributions to protecting biodiversity and promoting a sustainable future.
This conference serves as a platform for knowledge sharing and international collaboration in the fight against desertification and the pursuit of sustainable soil health practices.
MN/odl/te/lb/abj/APA