Author : Muhammad Haseeb Parvez and Ruqayia

This review investigates the pivotal role of soil functions in the context of sustainable agriculture and its multifaceted impacts on food security, climate change mitigation, biofuel production, water resources, and waste management. Soil, a cornerstone of agricultural systems, serves as a nexus for numerous critical functions including nutrient cycling, water retention, carbon sequestration, and waste degradation. Understanding and harnessing these functions are paramount in addressing pressing global challenges. The paper explores how sustainable soil management practices directly influence food security by enhancing crop yield and quality. Furthermore, it delves into the pivotal role of soil in climate change mitigation by elucidating its carbon sequestration capabilities and its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it examines the intricate relationship between biofuel production and soil health, emphasizing sustainable approaches that prioritize soil preservation. The discussion extends to the vital role of soils in water resource management, focusing on their ability to retain, purify, and conserve water. Moreover, it highlights the significance of soil in waste management practices such as composting and waste bioremediation, contributing to both waste reduction and soil fertility improvement. Throughout the review, challenges in implementing sustainable soil management practices are addressed, presenting opportunities for innovation and policy development.

Keywords: Soil functions, food security, sustainable agriculture, biofuels, climate change, waste management.