Guatemala is increasing efforts to analyze, monitor, and manage its soils in a sustainable way, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA). The announcement coincides with World Soil Day, observed annually on December 5.
Soil plays a key role in food security, ecological balance, and economic development. MAGA is conducting ongoing technical studies to assess soil health and productivity across the country. These studies also help identify degradation risks and guide conservation strategies.
The country’s diverse geography and climate have resulted in a variety of soil types—volcanic, sandy, mountainous, or steep slopes—which require tailored management practices for sustainability. Updated data are available to better understand this potential and support sustainable agriculture as well as land management.
Between 2024 and 2025, Guatemala held the Vice Presidency of the Latin American and Caribbean Soil Association (ASLAC), an organization that promotes cooperation and joint strategies for responsible soil use. This role supports more resilient agri-food systems in the region.
MAGA has also enhanced technical capacity through the SoilFER project with support from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This initiative has expanded fertility analysis at the territorial level, improved data generation, and encouraged evidence-based decision-making critical for agricultural productivity and resource conservation.
The Agricultural Information Center under the Directorate of Geographic Information, Strategy and Risk Management (DIGEGR) integrates geospatial information to support sector planning. It also provides public access to essential data for sustainable soil management, strengthening agricultural governance nationwide.
"The conservation of soil is a strategic investment for food security, adaptation to climate change, and sustainable rural development," stated MAGA. "For this reason, we remain committed to strengthening knowledge generation, promoting innovation, and encouraging responsible agriculture."
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