soil ecosystem function

A description of the significance of soils to humans and the environment. Examples are: (i) control of substance and energy cycles within ecosystems; (ii) basis for the life of plants, animals and man; (iii) basis for the stability of buildings and roads; (iv) basis for agriculture and forestry; (v) carrier of genetic reservoir; (vi) document of natural history; and (vii) archaeological and paleo-ecological document.