Soil – as valuable as rainforests

Soils are a vital part of the natural heritage providing a broad range of functions. Soils are the biggest store of carbon in the world and are also amongst the most varied habitats on earth with as many species as tropical rainforests.

We can lose soils through development, or cause damage to this natural resource by the way we use land. Because soils take so long to form, they can be considered as resources that can’t be replaced.

Managing soil

The importance of soil has only recently been recognised and.  In 1996, the “Sustainable Use of Soil” report recommended that the UK Government should prepare a strategy to make sure that soils are adequately protected and used in a sustainable way.

CCW’s role

CCW has played a key role in developing national and European soil policies. We also advise on soil conservation and we are involved in furthering the understanding of soil issues within the UK.