Topic 5.3 - Soil Degradation and Conservation (IB Environmental Systems and Societies)

Pedogenesis

The process of soil development.

Soil Degradation

According to the FAO definition, is "a" change in the soil health status resulting in a diminished capacity of the ecosystem to provide goods and services for its beneficiaries.

Deforestation

The process of destroying a forest often replacing it with an agricultural system.

Overgrazing

The grazing of natural pastures at stocking intensities above the livestock-carrying capacity.

Acidification

The change in the chemical composition of soil, which may trigger the circulation of toxic metals.

Salinisation

The condition in which the salt content of soil accumulates over time to above normal levels. It occurs in some parts of the world where water containing high salt concentration evaporates from fields irrigated with standing water.

Desertification

The transformation of land that could once support human life into desert.

Dust Storm

A severe windstorm that sweeps clouds of dust across an extensive area, especially in an arid region.

Soil Conditioners

Materials added to soil to improve soil fertility.

Shelters Belts

Hedgerows and trees grown by farmer to protect soil from prevailing winds. The vegetation dissipates the impact of strong winds.

Strip Cultivation

The planting of alternate strips of a close-growing crop or grass with a crop less protective of the soil, arranged at right angles to the direction of the prevailing wind.

Contour Ploughing

A pattern of ploughing that ensures that the ridges and furrows are at right angles to the slope, preventing moisture from running downhill and thus reducing erosion considerable.

Terracing

The conversion of a steep slope into a series of flat steps with raised outer edges so that cultivation can be practiced.