European, British soils seriously affected by intensive farming

A new report reveals that over 60% of the EU’s agricultural soils and around 40% of British soils are severely degraded due to intensive farming practices, The Guardian reported. The Save Soil initiative warns this degradation disrupts the land’s water cycle, worsening floods and droughts by reducing soil’s natural ability to retain water. This creates a vicious cycle that exacerbates climate crisis impacts, food shortages, and price rises.

The report highlights that in 2022, a third of the EU population and 40% of its land faced water scarcity, while recent floods have hit countries like Spain, Italy, and Germany. Groundwater levels have dropped significantly in France, with drought expected in the UK despite recent heavy rains.

Experts call for soil restoration to be prioritized in climate policies and subsidies to support regenerative farming. UK environmental groups urge the government to protect soil health like air and water, promoting nature-friendly farming over harmful pesticides. The government says it supports sustainable soil management through agri-environment schemes, though funding uncertainties remain.