In the heart of sub-Saharan Africa, where the very soil that sustains life is under threat, a beacon of hope emerges from the University of Aberdeen. Dominik Bittner, a researcher from the Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences and the Interdisciplinary Institute, has published a compelling narrative review in the journal ‘Environmental Research Letters’ (translated as ‘Letters on Environmental Research’), shedding light on the pressing need for accessible soil health assessment tools and nature-based solutions to combat soil degradation.
Soil degradation is a silent crisis, particularly in climate-vulnerable regions like sub-Saharan Africa. Unstable soils prone to severe erosion threaten the livelihoods of farmers, who often cannot afford accurate soil tests. They face a multitude of challenges, from food and fuel demands to competition for valuable resources. Bittner’s work emphasizes the urgent need for practical, affordable tools to assess soil health and provide tailored advice on resilient, climate-smart agricultural management.
The review evaluates a wide range of tests, from physical and biological to chemical, functional, and service-related, drawing on both scientific and farmer knowledge. “Science-based tests require expertise, equipment, and incur costs, while locally-derived tests are affordable and seamlessly applicable,” Bittner explains. This dual approach ensures that solutions are not only effective but also accessible to those who need them most.
Nature-based solutions for improving soil quality are also scrutinized, with an assessment against factors such as labor, costs, and crop production. Bittner highlights that there is no one-size-fits-all solution; suitability depends on farmers’ priorities and circumstances. This nuanced understanding is crucial for developing tailored strategies that can be effectively implemented at a local level.
One of the most promising aspects of Bittner’s research is the exploration of predictive methods. Mechanistic, process-based soil models, data- and knowledge-driven Artificial Intelligence, and systems models are all examined for their potential to simulate the impact of practices on soil and farm dynamics. Hybrid approaches that assimilate data, physics, and knowledge through digital soil mapping are particularly promising.
The implications of this research extend beyond the agricultural sector, touching on the energy sector as well. Healthy soils are essential for sustainable bioenergy production, and the tools and methods highlighted in Bittner’s review could play a pivotal role in securing a sustainable future for both food and energy production.
As we look to the future, Bittner’s work underscores the importance of empowering farmers with accessible tools and methods. By harnessing nature-based solutions and building climate resilience, we can secure sustainable futures for generations to come. This research not only shapes the future of soil health assessment but also paves the way for innovative, sustainable practices across various sectors.