Agricultural Soil Degradation in Colombia

Abstract

AbstractFor Colombia, reversing land and soil degradation is a fundamental challenge looking to guarantee food security and conservation of its wide ecosystem diversity. This chapter analyzes trends and challenges of land and soil degradation associated with agricultural practices in Colombia. Using a methodological framework based on expert consultation, systematic search of information, and bibliometric analysis, we ask about the importance of different degradation process on agricultural land, as well as their main causes and its problematics. At a regional level we analyze the extension of different processes of land and soil degradation and agricultural practices which can or will be more viable to reduce it. Furthermore, we identify research gaps or current problems which demands immediate and effective actions to advance towards a sustainable management of soils and lands. Finally, we conclude that to stop agricultural and land degradation in Colombia, and, if possible, to reverse this process, is only feasible through state-level policies and the transformation of paradigms in which diverse actors impact soils and land with their agricultural activities.KeywordsAgricultural frontierCattle ranchingResearch gapsSoil erosionSustainability