Soil and Land
Soil
Soil is the biologically active zone where air, water, sunlight and the earth's crust interact. Without this incredible interaction there would be no human life on earth. Humans depend on soil to produce food, fibre and shelter. Soil also provides the foundation on which we build homes, cities and transportation networks. In addition to the active use of soil by humans, the world's soils are essential in maintaining the quality of our environment. Soils store, transport and purify water. They also store and detoxify harmful waste products.
Land
Land describes the interaction of air, soil, water and natural resources. Land use, and land management describe alterations of the natural environment for the benefit of humankind. Agriculture practices are constantly changing so that our land use practices are productive and sustainable.