Somerset House presents SOIL: The World at Our Feet, a groundbreaking exhibition that highlights the incredible significance of soil in sustaining life on Earth and its vital role in our planet's future. Often dismissed as mere dirt, soil is a complex and powerful ecosystem that supports 25% of Earth’s biodiversity and 75% of its terrestrial biomass.
Soil is home to countless microorganisms—up to 50,000 species in a single gram—many of which produce antibiotic compounds that have paved the way for modern medicine. Despite this, the full potential of these microorganisms remains largely untapped.
Earthworms, essential to soil health, burrow deep into the earth, creating channels that allow for better air circulation and plant growth. Similarly, mycelium and plants share a symbiotic relationship, with mycelium providing nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus to plants, while plants supply mycelium with carbon.
Soil also forms the foundation of nearly all human food production, yet it takes centuries to regenerate. In contrast, it can be destroyed in moments. As a valuable carbon store, the protection of soil is crucial for our planet's future.
SOIL brings together diverse perspectives from global artists, writers, and scientists to inspire and educate visitors about soil's potential to heal our world, while underscoring the urgent need to preserve it.
Comments
Post a Comment