Talk arranged to discuss degradation in quality of British soils

A talk has been arranged to discuss the exponential degradation in the quality of British soils and its effects on farming.

The All-Party Parliamentary group on Agroecology and the Food Ethics Council have arranged the talk to discuss soil quality in Britain, highlighting the importance of soil quality for the future of agriculture.

It is safe to say that the organisers are taking a serious and somewhat pessimistic standpoint on the issue. The talk is entitled "The Death of British Farmland?", and is to be chaired by Baroness Miller.

Speakers are set to talk on matters such as erosion, contamination and reduction in nutrient and organic matter. They will also focus on current soil management and farming practices and their role in safeguarding the future of farming in the UK.

Sue Miller, co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Agroecology, told Farming UK: "For generations one of our most precious national assets has been depleted as though it is infinite. Without healthy soil we will not be a food secure nation.

"Our All Party Group is holding this meeting to ensure Parliamentarians have the latest information on the urgency of restoring soil health. We want to ensure the government prioritises work on soil."

Posted by Joseph Hutton