International Fertilizer Industry Association (IFA)

Statement of support regarding efforts to combat desertification

The appropriate use of manufactured fertilizers within the context of integrated soil fertility management is a critical part of a long-term strategy to reverse the cycle of desertification. Nutrients maintain and can even restore soil fertility, thus fostering crop cover, an effective way to combat erosion. Properly nourished crops retain water more efficiently, an advantage under dry conditions.

Increasing soil fertility has numerous positive social and economic effects. Fertilizer industry-supported integrated projects in West Africa are a case in point: farmer incomes have improved, rural communities have acquired valuable management skills, school attendance is up and market institutions have been strengthened.

The International Fertilizer Industry Association (IFA) advocates the creation of the necessary conditions for lasting solutions: access to credit at reasonable terms; transport and information infrastructures; and strengthening markets for agricultural inputs and farmers' produce.

IFA is a not-for-profit organization representing the global fertilizer industry, with more than 450 members in some 80 countries. About half of these companies are based in developing countries. IFA's members are involved in all the activities related to the production and distribution of every type of fertilizer, their raw materials and intermediates. IFA's membership also includes organizations involved in agronomic research and training.

For more information please visit: www.fertilizer.org