Approximately 33% of global soils are degraded, and 120,000 square kilometers turn into deserts annually—an area only 20,000 square kilometers smaller than Iceland. This degradation, driven by erosion, pollution, and other factors, critically undermines food and water security, biodiversity, and climate stability, while significantly increasing costs.
Addressing soil resilience for the future requires tackling the social, economic, and policy dimensions essential for sustainable land management, climate resilience, and equitable access to soil resources. How can we explore a comprehensive approach to the future of our soils using collaborative strategies?

Deputy Executive Secretary, United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)

Professor of Soil Science, Ohio State University

Jack Lloyd
Centre for Nature and Climate, World Economic Forum
The Hidden Economic Power of Healthy Soils
Healthy soils underpin food systems, water security, climate resilience, biodiversity and economic stability, yet their value remains largely invisible in business decision-making.
The Hidden Economic Power of Healthy Soils makes the business case for investing in soil health, demonstrating how healthy soils support productivity, strengthen supply chain resilience, reduce risk and create long-term value for businesses and investors.
Drawing on scientific evidence and real-world case studies from business, finance and agriculture, the report highlights practical pathways to embed soil stewardship into corporate strategy and investment.







The network convenes over 700 experts from academia, business, government, civil society and international organizations, operating as a time-bound think-tank, grouped in expertise-based thematic councils, to identify and disseminate transformative ideas with the potential for positive global impact.
