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Title	Soil-Related Sustainable Development Goals: Four Concepts to Make Land Degradation Neutrality and Restoration Work
ID_Doc	22
Authors	Keesstra, S; Mol, G; de Leeuw, J; Okx, J; Molenaar, C; de Cleen, M; Visser, S
Published	Land, 7, 4
Structure	Here are the sections of the article with two sentences each: Introduction The article discusses the importance of achieving Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) by 2030, which is a key goal under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To achieve LDN, multifunctional use of land is needed within the boundaries of the soil-water system, and awareness-raising, a change in stakeholders' attitudes, and a change in economics are essential. Land Degradation Processes Physical land degradation involves the displacement and/or repositioning of soil particles without altering their chemical composition, while chemical degradation occurs due to the (over)use of manure and fertilizers leading to eutrophication of soils and ground- and surface waters. Biological degradation of soil organic matter is also a significant process, as the loss of organic matter can lead to a decline in soil fertility and structure. Socio-Economic and Policy Processes The drivers of land degradation are increasing world population, human aging, urbanization, climate change, growing welfare and increasing consumption, growing pressure on natural capital and resources, and growing energy consumption. The cost of land degradation is estimated to be around €420 billion per year, and addressing these drivers requires the development of new business models and stakeholder involvement. Four Concepts to Make LDN Work The article introduces four concepts that are conducive to realizing LDN: systems thinking, connectivity, nature-based solutions, and regenerative economics. These concepts are partly complementary and reinforce each other, and their simultaneous use will result in more robust solutions that are sustainable from an environmental, societal, and economic point of view. Systems Thinking and the Heterogeneity and Dynamics of Land and Soils Landscapes and ecosystems are complex systems consisting of interacting subsystems, and understanding the behavior of complex systems requires the use of three concepts: stocks and flows, feedback loops, and delayed response. Systems thinking lies at the base of the three other concepts, stressing feedback loops but also delayed responses. Connectivity The connectedness between systems in a spatial or geographical way is referred to as connectivity, and this concept can be considered as a special case of systems thinking related to the spatial realm. Connectivity is especially important when land use is concerned, and it allows us to consider the off-site effects of systems, such as plastic pollution in oceans and downstream effects of upstream changes in water. Nature-Based Solutions The term Nature-Based Solution emerged about ten years ago, and it is strongly related to terms like Ecosystem Services, natural capital, ecological engineering, and blue-green infrastructure. Nature-based solutions make use of natural alternatives to purely technological solutions to solve a range of problems, from maintaining biodiversity and restoring ecosystems to designing solutions to cope with climate change. Regenerative Economics Regenerative economics is a concept that values the regenerative success and not just financial success, and it encompasses the focus on materials, energy, social capital, and knowledge and ideas. Alternative economic theories and models are needed, and regenerative economics is one such approach that aims to develop financial institutions in the direction of less risk and more social involvement. Using the Four Concepts to Design Land Degradation Neutral Solutions The article illustrates how the four concepts can be used to come up with solutions that lead to LDN alternatives for current situations, and at the same time contribute to other SDGs. The four concepts are strongly interrelated and partly complementary, and their simultaneous use will result in more robust solutions that are sustainable from an environmental, societal, and economic point of view. Conclusions The article concludes that achieving LDN by 2030 requires a new sustainable approach to land use and land management, and that a broad and integrated approach from an environmental, economic, and social point of view is needed. The four concepts of systems thinking, connectivity, nature-based solutions, and regenerative economics are essential for realizing LDN, and their simultaneous use will result in more robust solutions that are sustainable from an environmental, societal, and economic point of view.
Summary	The article discusses the importance of achieving Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) by 2030, as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Land degradation affects 75% of the world's land, leading to loss of ecosystem services and exacerbating climate change. To achieve LDN, a holistic approach is needed, integrating environmental, social, and economic factors. Four concepts are introduced to support LDN: systems thinking, connectivity, nature-based solutions, and regenerative economics. Systems thinking involves understanding the impact of land management on the soil-water system, while connectivity highlights the interconnectedness of natural systems. Nature-based solutions use natural processes to mitigate land degradation, such as using riparian vegetation to reduce sediment transport. Regenerative economics values ecosystem services and promotes sustainable land management practices. The article illustrates the application of these concepts through three examples in agricultural settings, including orchards in Eastern Spain and the Four Returns approach of Commonland. These examples demonstrate the potential for integrated solutions to achieve LDN and contribute to other SDGs. The authors conclude that paradigm shifts are needed to move from excessive exploitation to sustainable use and management of the soil-water system.
Scientific Methods	Based on the provided article, the research methods used in this study are: 1. System thinking: The authors used system thinking to understand the complex relationships between the soil-water system, economy, society, and the biosphere. They applied the concept of feedback loops and delayed responses to analyze the dynamics of the system. 2. Connectivity: The authors applied the concept of connectivity to study the spatial and geographical connections between different systems, such as water and sediment dynamics. 3. Nature-based solutions: The authors used nature-based solutions, such as buffer strips, riparian vegetation, and wetlands, to address land degradation issues. 4. Regenerative economics: The authors applied regenerative economics to value the ecosystem services and consider the social and economic costs of land management. 5. Case studies: The authors conducted case studies to illustrate the application of the four concepts to real-world scenarios, such as the example of orchards in Eastern Spain and the common land restoration project in Altiplano Estepario. 6. Literature review: The authors conducted a comprehensive literature review to synthesize the current knowledge on land degradation, soil science, and ecosystem services. 7. Analysis of soil degradation processes: The authors analyzed the physical, chemical, and biological degradation processes of the soil-water system. 8. Ecosystem services assessment: The authors assessed the ecosystem services provided by the soil-water system, including provision of food, wood, and fiber, support for infrastructure, and regulation of pests and disease populations. 9. Value of ecosystem services: The authors evaluated the value of ecosystem services using indicators such as natural capital accounting and the economics of ecosystem and biodiversity. 10. Policy analysis: The authors analyzed the policy implications of the study and discussed the need for paradigm shifts in land management and policy decisions. Overall, the study employed a multi-disciplinary approach, combining insights from system thinking, ecology, economics, and policy analysis to address the complex issues of land degradation and soil conservation.
Article contribution	The article discusses the concept of Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) and its relationship with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The authors introduce four concepts that can contribute to achieving LDN: systems thinking, connectivity, nature-based solutions, and regenerative economics. Contribution to Regenerative Economics: The article makes a significant contribution to regenerative economics by highlighting the importance of valuing ecosystem services and the natural system as a whole. The authors argue that traditional economic approaches focus solely on financial value, while regenerative economics recognizes the importance of non-monetary values such as biodiversity, ecosystem services, and social capital. The article also discusses the concept of regenerative economics, which is a holistic approach that integrates environmental, social, and economic values. The authors argue that this approach is essential for achieving LDN and other SDGs, as it recognizes the interconnectedness of natural systems and human societies. Key Points: 1. Systems Thinking: The article emphasizes the importance of systems thinking in achieving LDN. This approach recognizes the interconnectedness of natural systems and human societies, and seeks to understand the complex interactions and feedback loops that govern these systems. 2. Connectivity: The article highlights the importance of connectivity in achieving LDN. Connectivity refers to the connections between natural systems, such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands, and human societies. 3. Nature-Based Solutions: The article discusses the importance of nature-based solutions in achieving LDN. These solutions recognize the value of natural systems and seek to restore or enhance ecosystem services, such as biodiversity, water quality, and carbon sequestration. 4. Regenerative Economics: The article argues that regenerative economics is essential for achieving LDN. This approach recognizes the importance of non-monetary values and seeks to integrate environmental, social, and economic values. Recommendations: 1. Integrate Systems Thinking: The article recommends integrating systems thinking into policy decisions and management practices to achieve LDN. 2. Promote Connectivity: The article suggests promoting connectivity between natural systems and human societies to achieve LDN. 3. Implement Nature-Based Solutions: The article recommends implementing nature-based solutions to restore or enhance ecosystem services. 4. Adopt Regenerative Economics: The article suggests adopting regenerative economics as a holistic approach to achieve LDN. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the concepts and principles necessary for achieving Land Degradation Neutrality and Sustainable Development Goals. The authors' recommendations for integrating systems thinking, promoting connectivity, implementing nature-based solutions, and adopting regenerative economics provide a framework for achieving LDN and other SDGs.

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