A new study warns that soil erosion could endanger humanity’s ability to feed itself if nothing is done, reports SciDev.Net.

Published in the journal, Science the study says soils are being lost faster than they are being naturally produced in many parts of the world.

Soil loss is attributed to the overuse of land, deforestation, desertification and runoff; largely brought about by agriculture.

There are techniques that can reduce soil erosion and increase food production, such as agroforestry and covering land with crop residues, says Rattan Lal, a soil scientist at The Ohio State University, USA. He believes soil management should be included in the global agenda to address climate change and food shortages in order to overcome malnutrition.

An additional concern highlighted in the report is a possible future shortage of rock phosphate which is used to make fertilizer. Food production in the developed world is already plateauing, says the article, and increasing food production in underdeveloped nations will require the use of fertilizers.

The authors suggest that instead of relying solely on fertilizers to increase yields, more efficient food distribution and nutrient recycling are needed.

Read the full story: Soil erosion may threaten global food security

Download the article: Soil and human security in the 21st century (Science, 8 May 2015)