Work

A review of topsoil governance for mining and agriculture in South Africa and abroad

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Topsoil is taken for granted as the dirt under our feet. Yet, humanity hinges on 15 cm of topsoil. As with potable water, topsoil is a natural resource we depend on daily. This review examines the chronological development of topsoil conservation through the governance of legal and other instruments since 1701. It highlights how topsoil is defined, its global and South African status, and which events enabled its conservation. We found that early on, topsoil was prioritized as a critical national resource in the United States, Australia, and South Africa. However, since then, regulatory developments in South Africa have limited its ability to both protect topsoil as a national asset and to meet its own needs and global commitments. Our investigation into socio‐economic conditions, legislation, environmental awareness, litigation, governance, and international agreements over the last 325 years provides a unique perspective from which to propose reforms to enhance the status of topsoil. Given South Africa's current topsoil situation and projected population growth, the country urgently needs coordinated governance to safeguard and restore its topsoil.

Source: Restoration Ecology

DOI: 10.1111/rec.70353

Authors: Chrizette D. Neethling, Surina Esterhuyse, Pieter W. van Deventer, Suzanne J. Milton, Joh R. Henschel

Institutions: University of the Free State, North-West University, South African Environmental Observation Network

Language: English

Topic: Environmental law and policy

Subfield: Law

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Life on land, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,300