What can we do as individuals to help preserve soil in urban areas ?

When we think of soil we think of food, when we think of soil we think of plants, when we think of soil we think of the habitat for countless organisms that survive on it, when we think of soil, we think of water and when we think of soil we think of earth! Healthy soil is fundamental to life, serving as the basis for food production, biodiversity, and the regulation of water and climate systems. It supports plant growth, sustains ecological balance, and underpins the planet’s essential nutrient and carbon cycles.

When we think of soil we think of vast open farmlands, away from urban areas but rarely do we think about the urban soil which is the very theme of this years ‘World Soil Day’ celebrated on 5^th December every year. This World Soil Day 2025 focuses on urban landscapes with the theme "Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities."

It  is no secret that with climate change, increasing human activity our soils are getting affected. It is not only affected the soil health but also the entire ecosystem including the nutrients, water infiltration, habitat etc.

Beneath the concrete lies soil that is so crucial to absorb rainwater, regulate temperature, store carbon, and improve air quality. Apparently, concretisation all over the world is at it’s peak making things vulnerable to flooding, heating and pollution. Despite rising concretisation, cities still have open spaces—gardens, riverbanks, hillsides, and community patches—where soil can be protected and revived

How can we contribute as individuals?

Each of us can play a meaningful role in improving soil health within our cities by adopting simple habits. One of the most doable things at home is proper segregation of waste into dry, wet and kitchen waste. It will help hazardous waste going into the landfills, it will help organic matter to be composted. Compost derived from segregated wet waste enriches urban soils with essential nutrients, improves water retention, and reduces the need for chemical inputs. Through mindful consumption, responsible disposal, and active participation in composting or community garden initiatives, individuals can significantly contribute to healthier, more resilient urban soils and a cleaner environment overall.

 

Through responsible consumption, waste segregation, and support for composting or community gardening, each of us can help build healthier soils—and healthier cities.