A strategy to protect the health of England's soils and ensure they
continue to store carbon dioxide, will be published by the government later.
Experts say good soil not only produces strong crops, but is an
effective store of carbon, and can reduce flooding by absorbing rain and
river water.
But Environment Secretary Hilary Benn said population growth, transport
and housing are threatening the soil.
Farmers have welcomed the government's serious response to the issue.
The new strategy will include supporting farmers in managing their soil,
a framework to protect peat habitats, safeguards for soils in urban
areas and prevention of soil pollution.
[permaculture] BBC NEWS | Science & Environment | Bid to protect England's top soil,
Lawrence F. London, Jr., 09/23/2009