Review of Welsh soil evidence
Read the full reportWelsh agricultural soils, particularly organo-mineral and peat soils, are rich in carbon compared to the European average, representing a valuable national resource. However, these soils face significant threats from soil compaction, erosion, nutrient imbalance, and biodiversity loss, exacerbated by climate change and land use changes. The report highlights the need for targeted practices to preserve soil health and enhance carbon sequestration, providing specific metrics and evidence to guide effective soil management in the face of future challenges.
Welsh agricultural soils, especially organo-mineral and peat soils, are high in carbon compared to the European average. This is a valuable national resource.
The report highlights the current status and threats to Welsh agricultural soils, including issues like soil compaction, erosion, nutrient balance, and biodiversity loss.
Climate change is identified as a significant future threat, with predictions of sea level rise, wetter winters, warmer summers, and increased extreme weather events. There is concern over land use changes, particularly the conversion of permanent grassland, and its impact on soil properties and functions.
The report provides empirical evidence from various studies and surveys demonstrating the benefits of recommended practices on soil health and carbon sequestration.
Specific metrics for soil carbon levels, nutrient balance, and soil biodiversity are included.
Recommendations for policy implementation
- The report emphasises the need for a dedicated soil policy in Wales to address the sustainability of soils explicitly.
- Recommendations include promoting sustainable soil management practices such as reduced tillage, cover cropping, and organic amendments.
- The report highlights the opportunities for improvement: peatland restoration to enhance carbon storage and ecosystem benefits, expanded arable and horticultural cultivation due to a longer growing season and warmer temperatures improving food self-sufficiency, and afforestation to boost soil carbon content and contribute to Net Zero targets, with careful consideration of soil types to avoid carbon loss.
- Implement robust soil health monitoring programs to track changes in soil structure, carbon levels, and overall health over time.