Its impact depends on how it’s practiced – and that matters, because so much of the Earth’s surface is devoted to agricultural production.
One of the most important ways agriculture can protect the planet is by protecting the health of soil. The healthier soil is, the better it can sequester carbon, improve air and water quality, and grow food. ARS researchers explore how to maintain and improve soil health through a number of different management practices, including promoting plant diversity, keeping soil covered, reducing tillage, and more. Watch this video to learn about the approaches they’re studying.