The Ohio State University researchers conducted a study which found that erosion of topsoil reduces crop productivity and contributes to the release of greenhouse gases. While the effects of this erosion are damaging, their study found that this eroded topsoil can be rebuilt and the harmful effects of the erosion can be reversed faster than previously believed.
Topsoil erosion affects more than 4 billion acres of land around the world, which is about twice the size of the continental United States. The effects of eroded topsoil on crop productivity negatively affects farmers’ profit incomes through this crop loss. Low crop productivity also leads to global food insecurity and hunger in developing countries. The increased release of greenhouse gas levels through eroded topsoil contributes to climate change.
Researchers found that adding organic matter to topsoil helps accelerate the rebuilding process. They state that excess erosion should be prevented, since greenhouses gasses like methane and nitrous oxide found in soil will remain in the soil and ensure future crop profitability for America’s farmers.
To learn more about this research from The Ohio State University, read more here.
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