The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Luis Planas, has highlighted the critical importance of properly managing agricultural soils to ensure the future of the countryside and maintain the productivity of farms in Spain.
During the IV Iberian Congress of Rural Estates, Planas emphasized that agricultural lands should be considered a “living asset” that requires management based on science, technology, and sustainability.
Planas underlined the vital role of rural soil, as 95% of food depends on soil quality and fertility. Therefore, it is essential to protect this resource against factors such as degradation and improper use.
He also highlighted the soil’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide, which has attracted the interest of both agri-food professionals and investors.
The minister warned about the underutilization of land, which poses a risk for forest fires and the proliferation of pests.
Agricultural Soils
At the event, Planas highlighted that up to 41% of rural soil faces degradation issues and stressed the importance of recovering abandoned lands.
He expressed confidence in the Spanish agricultural sector, describing it as a global power, and reaffirmed the need to adopt responsible measures to move forward.
Planas recalled President Pedro Sánchez‘s announcement about the platform Tierra Joven, which seeks to attract young people to the countryside.
The minister also addressed the opportunity for the Spanish agri-food sector to expand its exports, especially in the current geopolitical context.
Planas pointed out the importance of technological innovation, the CAP, and the “magic triangle” of agrarian development: young people and women in the countryside, irrigation modernization, and digitalization.
In conclusion, Planas reaffirmed his confidence in the potential of the Spanish countryside to continue being a global reference if responsible management and innovation in agriculture are prioritized.
