Pulsing Power: Celebrating World Pulses Day 2024 for Soil Health and Nutrition

Pulsing Power: Celebrating World Pulses Day 2024 for Soil Health and Nutrition

Rome witnessed a global event at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) headquarters, setting the stage for the upcoming World Pulses Day 2024 on February 10. The event, themed ‘Pulses: Nourishing Soils and People,’ highlighted the pivotal role of pulses in maintaining soil health and providing essential nutrition to communities worldwide.

Soil Health and Environmental Impact:

Pulses, including beans, chickpeas, and peas, emerged as nutritional powerhouses crucial for both human and environmental well-being. In the context of soils, these crops play a vital role by providing essential nutrients, contributing to soil biodiversity, and enhancing overall soil structure. Notably, their cultivation showcases resilience to adverse climates, optimizing fertilizer use and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Director-General QU Dongyu emphasized the versatility and resilience of pulses, positioning them as part of the solution to challenges such as climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and soil erosion. Their ability to thrive in diverse climates and nitrogen-fixing properties makes pulses invaluable in addressing these global concerns.

FAO’s Commitment and Global Collaboration:

FAO’s Director-General reiterated the organization’s commitment to supporting farmers, unlocking the full potential of pulses through collaboration with researchers and stakeholders. He underscored the importance of expanding pulse genetic resources, investing in research and innovation, and enhancing technologies and agricultural techniques.

Keynote addresses from global representatives highlighted the significance of pulses, with discussions on expanding pulse genetic resources, investing in research, and improving production and marketing. The session featured expert technical presentations, exploring topics such as utilizing pulses for soil improvement in Latin America and Africa and enhancing nutrition through pulses.

Pulses and Soil Health:

Pulses contribute to soil health by hosting beneficial bacteria in their roots, converting nitrogen from the air into fertilizers in the soil. This process, coupled with the release of phosphorus in the soil, enhances soil diversity and benefits other crops grown alongside pulses. Pulses’ role in sustainable farming practices, such as intercropping and crop rotation, is highlighted, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Nutritional and Economic Benefits:

Pulses emerge as an affordable and nutrient-dense protein source, playing a crucial role in populations with limited dietary options. With 19 to 25 percent protein content (and some varieties surpassing 30 percent), pulses contribute significantly to improving diets. Their value chains also foster job creation, supporting rural women, youth, and urban families involved in processing and marketing value-added products.

Since the designation of World Pulses Day on February 10 by the United Nations General Assembly, FAO has been at the forefront of raising awareness about the importance of pulses. The organization’s projects worldwide, including initiatives in Latin America and the Caribbean, aim to enhance family farmers’ capacities and boost nutrition through sustainable pulse production.

As World Pulses Day 2024 approaches, the global community comes together to celebrate the profound impact of pulses on soil health, nutrition, and sustainable agrifood systems, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).