Major threats to soil and soil health in Vanuatu include erosion, deforestation, and climate change impacts.
- Soil erosion, mainly sheet erosion and gully erosion is a significant threat due to a combination of heavy rainfall, deforestation and agricultural practices.
- Forests play a crucial role in preserving soil health by reducing erosion and maintaining nutrient cycling. The clearance of forests for agriculture and property development contributes to soil degradation and loss of organic matter.
- Climate Change can affect soil moisture, salinity, and nutrient availability.
- Unsustainable Land Use practices, insufficient fallow periods or crop rotations, lack of fertiliser application (chemical and/or organic manure), and land clearance all impact soil health and fertility.
