Soil experts and researchers are highlighting the importance of including soil microbiomes within the One Health framework, which focuses on the interconnectedness of human, wildlife, and environmental health. Recognizing the critical role of soil microbiomes in water and environmental health, as well as global food security and overall terrestrial sustainability, experts are advocating for a comprehensive approach that considers the impact of soil microbiomes on the health of ecosystems and living organisms.
The Significance of Soil Microbiomes
Soil microbiomes are vital for maintaining healthy water and environmental stability. These microbiomes provide a habitat for microorganisms that deliver important ecosystem and host functions. They contribute to nutrient cycling, plant health, carbon sequestration, and overall soil fertility. The health of soil microbiomes is crucial for agricultural productivity and the sustainability of terrestrial ecosystems.
Role of Soil Microbiomes in Disease Transmission
However, it is important to note that soil microbiomes can also act as reservoirs for human pathogens and contribute to the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Soil microbiomes can impact the immune systems of humans and animals through interactions in the food chain. Moreover, soil microbiomes can directly influence the quality of the environment through air and water, affecting overall ecosystem health.
Soil Microbiomes as Pathogen Reservoirs
Soil microbiomes hold reservoirs for important microbial hazards, including human, plant, and animal pathogens. Pathogens such as Yersinia pestis, Clostridium botulinum, and Bacillus anthracis can be found in soil across the globe. These pathogens cause hundreds of millions of infections each year through direct or indirect interactions with human, animal, and plant food cycles. Soil microbiomes have been implicated in the transfer of pathogens like Salmonella enterica serotype typhi, responsible for causing typhoid.
An Integrated Five-Step Approach
To address the role of soil microbiomes within the One Health framework, researchers recommend an integrated five-step approach:
- Collaboration and Data Sharing: Organizations such as the United Nations Global Soil Partnership, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Organisation for Animal Health, the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research, the International Network of Soil Biodiversity, and the International Network of Soil Pollution should collaborate to collect data, share knowledge, and make policy recommendations.
- Filling Knowledge Gaps: Efforts should be made to fill gaps in understanding the distribution of soil-borne pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) worldwide. This will require targeted research and monitoring to assess the prevalence and impact of soil microbiomes on human, animal, and environmental health.
- Regular Soil Assessments: International agencies should collaborate with global expertise to conduct regular soil assessments that are relevant to the One Health framework. These assessments will provide crucial data to inform policies and interventions aimed at mitigating the risks associated with soil-borne pathogens and ARGs.
- Integration of Environmental Models: Different environmental models, including climate, socioecology, and land use, should be integrated with epidemiological models. This will enable the forecasting of future risks associated with human pathogens, food safety, and pollutant exposure. By considering the complex interactions between soil microbiomes, environmental factors, and disease transmission, more effective preventive measures can be implemented.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Developing a coordinated mechanism to engage stakeholders involved in soil management, agriculture, public health, and environmental conservation is essential. This will foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the implementation of sustainable practices that prioritize soil health and mitigate the risks associated with soil-borne pathogens.