Management and reclamation of salt-affected soils: general assessment and experiences in the Brazilian semiarid region

Abstract

Salt-affected soils occupy extensive areas in arid and semi-arid regions around the world, and impact food production, particularly when salinization processes occur in irrigated areas. In this context, the possibility of using techniques for the reclamation of these soils needs to be considered. However, many of these techniques are inaccessible to most farmers in the Brazilian semi-arid region, given the high costs, mainly when it is necessary to install a subsurface drainage system. Thus, there is a need to evaluate other soil reclamation strategies as well as the possibility of using these areas for other purposes. This review covers topics related to the characterization and impacts of salt-affected soils, the infl uence of soil microorganisms, and strategies for soil reclamation, such as the use of chemical and organic conditioners, bio-drainage, phytoremediation, and revegetation with tolerant species. The topics addressed in this review indicate new possibilities for the reclamation and management of salt-affected soils in the Brazilian semi-arid region. A case study is also presented, which demonstrates that the use of salt-affected soils is defi ned by technical, social, and economic aspects.