Assessment and Management of Soil Salinity: Methods and Technologies

Dear Colleagues,

Soil salinity is a critical issue in many agricultural regions, primarily caused by salt accumulation due to irrigation and poor drainage.

According to the latest FAO report, approximately 1381 million hectares of land (about 10.7% of the planet’s total surface) are affected by salinity. In severely impacted countries, yield losses of up to 70% of crop production have been recorded. As global demand for food is expected to increase in the coming decades, the marginal yield of agricultural land affected by salt will become increasingly crucial.

An accurate assessment of soil salinity is essential for ensuring sustainable land use and crop productivity. Various methods are used to determine soil salinity, including the laboratory determination of Electrical Conductivity, either from saturation paste extract (ECe) or different soil/water ratios, as well as geophysical instruments such as electromagnetic induction (EMI) and in situ dielectric sensors.

Advancements in remote sensing and machine learning (ML) have enabled the creation of digital soil maps (DSMs) to estimate and visualize salinity levels over large areas. These tools support the mapping of soil salinity and help identify its spatial and temporal distribution, allowing for targeted interventions.

Salinity directly affects soil properties, such as reducing hydraulic conductivity, thereby impacting water infiltration and root zone conditions. Effective salinity control involves techniques such as salt leaching, improved drainage systems, and intelligent irrigation and leaching technology that optimize water use while preventing further salt accumulation.

The combined use of these technologies alongside the adoption of integrated management strategies will help mitigate the negative impacts of salinity and enhance the sustainability of crop production in environments threatened by the degradation of natural resources.

Prof. Dr. George Kargas
Dr. Paraskevi Londra
Guest Editors

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