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How much do you know about the soil beneath your feet? Soil is a non-renewable resource, which means its loss and degradation is not recoverable during a human lifespan. Did you know? One centimeter of soil can take hundreds to thousands of years to form.

Soils are the basis for the production of food, fibers, fuel and medicinal products. It is estimated that 95% of our food is directly and indirectly produced on our soils. Food production is just one reason why soil is a valuable resource. Alarmingly, degradation threatens approximately 33% of the world’s soil. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has declared 2015 the International Year of Soils, to help promote sustainable management of this vital resource. Our soils are at risk for reasons such as expanding cities, deforestation, pollution, and overgrazing. Learn more about how the FAO is working to preserve our soils and promote responsible management.

On this page you can find resources related to the International Year of Soils (IYS) including, infographics, videos, free download activities, and more to come as we explore different topics throughout the year.

Support World Soil Day and the International Year of Soils 2015