Soil Improvement: Impact of Management Practices on Soil Function and Quality

Soil functions and agricultural productivity are closely linked. The application of soil improving techniques is crucial to maintain soil functions, long-term productivity and the broad range ecosystem services provided by soils. These techniques include tillage, crop diversity, crop management, cover crops and the use of organic amendments. The effectiveness of soil management practices will vary with soil type, farming systems and agro-climatic zones. Management practices should be practical and economically viable to encourage uptake by farmers. Equally, important is the development of land use policies to secure the wider societal benefits provided by soils.