Our video on soil in this week's eco@africa inspired us to take a closer look at the brown stuff.

Let's cut straight to the chase — why is it brown?! 

Now we know about the color of soil, we were wondering: where does it actually come from? Read this to find out: where does the Earth's soil come from?

So why is soil so important? Check out this article about why healthy soils and forests are key to climate protection and prosperity

There's more in this video:

 
Soil's significance means it must be kept healthy! 

Here's an article about why fewer earthworms put soil health at risk.  There's more in this video about an ancient recipe helping to keep soil in good condition. 

Can soils help to save the climate? Find out here. 

And finally, a look at how Africans are working to protect soil. Check out these stories from Nigeria and Senegal: 

Ready to come back above ground now? How are you keeping the soil healthy where you live? Get in touch at ecoafrica@dw.com!