IUSS Alert 234 (April 2025)

State of the art

The IUSS Divisions, Commissions and Working Groups Chairs can now share their publications on the IUSS Alert. Every month, send your publications to the Secretariat and they will be published here. Please do so by the 15 of every month to make sure your articles will be published in the monthly current issue. Let’s keep our community posted on the progress of Soil Sciences.

Highlighted IUSS publications

By Division 2

By Xing Yan, Yongqiu Xia, Xu Zhao, Chaopu Ti, Longlong Xia, Scott X. Chang, Xiaoyuan Yan (2025). Coupling nitrogen removal and watershed management to improve global lake water quality. Nature Communications, 16: 2182. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-57442-0

Taking into consideration the N level (estimated by a remote sensing model) of 5768 lakes over the world, this paper demonstrates that is possible to reduce the N concentration (taken as proxy for pollution) in the water lakes through managing of fertilization in the watershed. To achieve the goal, it is also necessary to construct wastewater treatment plants and planting cover crops. However, the relationship between watershed N management and lake water quality improvement remains unclear, possibly because of factors like the large variation in N release from the land, the legacy of N flows, and the complex biogeochemical N cycles. Nonetheless, a 30% reduction in N loading in watersheds can improve cumulative water quality by over 70%, while stricter N reduction could accelerate achieving water quality goal (≤1 mg N/L).

By María Belén Ciacci, Norma Guadalupe Micheloud, Mauro Roberto Silvestre Levy, Marianela Rodriguez, Silvia Imhoff, Norberto Francisco Gariglio (2025). Cover crops improve the vegetative and reproductive traits of peach trees at the semiarid area of El Oasis Sur, Mendoza Province (Argentina). Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, 25: 1723-1730. DOI:10.1007/s42729-025-02233-1

This paper demonstrates that, even in a semiarid environment, both continuous cover crop (alfalfa) or annual cover crop (common vetch+oat) do not produce adverse effects on the vegetative and reproductive dynamics of peach trees. Instead, the application of both cover crops exerted a beneficial influence on vegetative growth, fruit size, fruit firmness, the number of fruits per tree and overall fruit yield of peach.

Awards

IUSS is seeking nominations for general awards, medals, and prizes for the 2026 WCSS. From research accomplishments to contributions in soil science, there are opportunities for both new and established researchers and scientists. Nomination instructions and award details can be found at https://www.iuss.org/awards-medals-and-prizes/

All nominations are due on 5 June 2025.

News from the IUSS

2025 IUSS World Soil of the Year

The “Gleysol – Hydromorphic soil supporting forest growth in the steppe region from the Carpathian Basin”, has been officially named the World Soil of the Year 2025. This soil was proposed by the Hungarian Soil Science Society. It highlights the significance of these unique soils that have a large global coverage, occurring in nearly all climates.
The represented World Soil of the Year soil profile is located on Püspökladány Experimental Station and Arboretum University of Sopron Forest Research Institute (SOE-ERTI). The soil is part of a unique cultural landscape dominated by grasslands and salt effected pastures in the Hungarian Plain. It is located within the Hortobágy National Park, which is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (Man and the Biosphere Program – MAB) and recognized UNESCO World heritage site.
Gleysols are soils that are affected in various areas in the world by land use and management and the indirect and direct effects of climate change. Salinization of groundwater, decreasing groundwater levels and alternation of sediment influx are common.
The election of the ‘Gleysol – hydromorphic soil from the steppe region in the Carpathian Basin’ as the World Soil of the Year 2025, comes amid growing global concerns about soil health and environmental change. Protecting and sustainably managing these hydromorphic soils is essential for mitigating floods, preserving water quality, and ensuring sustainable forest ecosystems in steppe terrains.
Various activities are planned throughout the year to celebrate this achievement, including educational programs, community workshops, and conservation initiatives aimed at promoting awareness of Gleysols’ ecological significance.

More information on the World Soil of the Year the Gleysol from the Carpatian Plain can found here:
https://www.iuss.org/world-soil-of-the-year/

World Soil of the Year elections
In recognition of the success of various national programs, the IUSS WSY program has been implemented to enhance soil literacy across numerous countries and on a global scale. It is expected that this will aid in compiling a registry of soil heritage, to recognize the inherent natural and cultural values of soils, thereby helping to open doors for soil science to integrate with environmental protection activities and projects.

2025 Fertility Symposium “Nourish the Soil, Feed the Future”

Date: 7th-8th May, 2025
Location: Rosario, Argentina

Organization: Fertilizar AC and IUSS Commission 3.3

The 17th edition of the Fertility Symposium offers a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge of soil fertility and crop nutrition management and of new technologies and advances towards a responsible management of field crop ecosystems. The Symposium starts with an analysis of the current state of Argentine soils, and the impact of agricultural use over the years. Critical topics will be discussed, such as technological innovations like precision agriculture, artificial intelligence, and the digitalization of agriculture, which are revolutionizing the way production systems are managed. Furthermore, sustainability will be a cross-cutting theme, analyzing agricultural practices that guarantee soil conservation, with special emphasis on the relationship between crop nutrition and human nutrition. The development of biological and specialty crops, their advantages, and adoption rates will also be addressed. The Symposium will include panels on the role of fertilization in livestock systems, a key aspect for improving efficiency in forage production. Likewise, national and international experts will share their views on the current and future state of crop nutrition and fertilizer use in different regions. This event is positioned as an unmissable event for producers, advisors, and agricultural stakeholders interested in boosting productivity with sustainable practices in a challenging environment that requires innovation and applied knowledge.

Read more: www.fertilizar.org.ar

2nd Workshop on Soil degradation control, remediation and reclamation

Date: 9th -11th June 2025
Location: Sofia, Bulgaria

Organized by: Commission 3.5 of the International Union of Soil Sciences, Institute of Soil Science, Agrotechnologies and Plant protection Nikola Poushkarov (ISSAPPNP), Agricultural Academy in cooperation with the Potsdam University and Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences.

News from national and regional soil science societies 2025

British Society of Soil Science (BSSS)
Launch New Overseas Collaboration Award

To celebrate the patronage of His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester, who in his role as Patron supported the Society for 8 years, we are excited to announce a new grant named in his honour. This grant is aimed to support applicants from low middle income countries, provides an ideal opportunity to highlight the importance of nurturing our soils and the collaboration across countries for the benefit of human society.
BSSS is sponsoring a grant of up to £3,000 to eligible researchers, scientists, and professionals with a keen interest in soils, and conducting their main activity in one of the low to middle income countries. Proposals will be assessed based on the expected impact of the project for the host country. BSSS strongly believes that overcoming the climate and biodiversity crises requires actions which cross country borders in order for real impact to be realised. To help achieve this, the Society is proud to introduce an annual HRH The Duke of Gloucester Overseas Collaboration Award aimed at funding soil-focused research projects and knowledge transfer activities across these countries.

British Society of Soil Science (BSSS)

“Soil Matters” Podcast

Soil Matters is a platform dedicated to bridging the gap between cutting-edge scientific research and real-world application. Each episode will feature leading experts, researchers, and practitioners discussing the latest findings, innovations, and challenges in soil science. It is also a great source of CPD for members and sector stakeholders etc.

Please find the published press release on our website: BSSS Launches New Podcast – British Society of Soil Science
Partners can download the logo here: https://soils.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/podcast-logo-wide.png
The photo from the recording is available here: https://soils.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/podcast-cover-image.jpg

A Practical Introduction to Soils in Great Britain

Date: Wednesday 30 April – Thursday 1 May 2025
Location: Llysfasi, Wales

This course covers two days and is targeted at people who want to improve their field soil description and identification skills. It includes introductory presentations, practical sessions on soil description techniques and then field visits to demonstrate a range of soil types and to hone your profile description skills.
You can find out more about the course: British Society of Soil Science – A Practical Introduction to Soils in Great Britain (Coleg Cambria, Llysfasi).
Places for both courses are limited. If you have any questions, to contact the team at admin@soils.org.uk

Malaysian Society of Soil Science (MSSS)
International Soil Science Conference (SOILS 2025)
Date: May 6 th — 8 th, 2025
Location: Penang, Malaysia
Theme: “Soil Health for a Sustainable Future: Bridging Soil, Agriculture, and Environmental Stewardship” Important Dates: Abstract Submission Opens: 31st January 2025 Oral & Poster.
THEME
Soil Health for Sustainable Future: Bridging Soil, Agriculture and Environmental Stewardship
Sub-Themes: Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition, Soil Microbiomes and Biodiversity, Soil Water and Management, Soil Survey and Classification, Soil Management in Plantation and Forest, Soil Pollution and Remediation, Soil Ecosystem and Climate Change.
Read more: https://msss.com.my/soils2025/

AFES – Association Française pour l’Étude des Sols

WSD 2025

Date: July 7th – 11st, 2025
Location: Geneva, Swiss

2025 Soil Study Days: A Meeting Place for Francophone Researchers and Professionals. The 17th edition of the Soil Study Days (JES 2025) will take place in Geneva from July 7 to 11, 2025, welcoming researchers and professionals working in the field of soil science. JES 2025 is organized by the Geneva School of Landscape, Engineering, and Architecture (HEPIA) and the French Association for Soil Studies, in close collaboration with the Swiss Soil Science Society.
Main Theme
The central theme for this edition is: “Soils, Functions, and Transition”.
In light of current events related to soils from bio-physical, legal, and socio-political perspectives, this edition aims to focus on the role of soils and their functions in our daily lives, as well as methods for evaluating, monitoring, and sustainably managing soils in a transitioning society.
Scope
In addition to the main theme, as is customary for JES, contributions on:
• General soil knowledge,
• Soils in warm regions, and
• Proposals that extend beyond the initial theme, are also welcomed and encouraged.

2025 will serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, fostering connections among the French-speaking soil science community and beyond.

Canadian Society of Soil Science

Soils For Our Future – A Gathering of Global to Local Perspectives

Date: July 20th-25th, 2025
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

The SOILS FOR OUR FUTURE 2025 brings together three conference events: 5th Global Soil Security Conference, Canadian Society of Soil Science Annual Meeting, and International Union of Soil Sciences Division 1 – Soils in Space and Time Meeting. Hosted by the Soil Conservation Council of Canada and the Manitoba Soil Science Society. With over 700 researchers, industry members, leaders of farmer organizations, graduate students and other attendees, SOILS FOR OUR FUTURE 2025 provides a global perspective to today’s research to sustain our future. Spanning five days, the conference provides attendees of the events to meet in plenary/technical sessions with their individual organizations and for all to come together in keynote sessions, tradeshow, posters, workshops and field tours.
The Organizing Committee of the Soils For Our Future (SFOF) 2025 International Joint Meeting of the Canadian Society of Soil Science (CSSS), the International Union of Soil Sciences – Division 1 – Soils in Space and Time (IUSS Div 1), and the 5th Global Soil Security (GSS) Conference, hosted by the Soil Conservation Council of Canada (SCCC) and the Manitoba Soil Science Society (MSSS), announces that Early Registration is now open. Abstract Submissions remain open until March 31, 2025.
Further information can be obtained from the website (soilsforourfuture.ca) or by email (soils2025@mbsoils.ca )

SISS – Società Italiana della Scienza del Suolo

International “Antonio Berlese” Summer School (ABSS) Soil Fauna: Applied Ecology and Systematics – First edition

Date: September 1st-5th, 2025
Location: experimental farm Fagna in Scarperia (FI), Italy

Key Info
Duration: 5 days
Lessons: 17 hours
Practical activities: 14 hours
Guided Study: 17 hours
Target: Undergraduate, Master’s and PhD students, Researchers and Professionals
Available places: 24 (12 free tent places)
ECTS: 3
Early registration: before April16th, Students: 340 €, Professionals: 450 €
Late registration: before June16th, Students: 450 €, Professionals: 550 €

Course Objectives:
– Explore soil biodiversity and ecology of soil fauna
– Study taxonomy and conservation practices
– Gain practical experience in sampling, extraction, identification and elaboration
– Collaborate with international experts

More information:
abs_school@scienzadelsuolo.org,
preregistration (before June 16th) : https://forms.office.com/e/eDvTeL8CKh

European Confederation of Soil Science Societies

VII INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF THE ECSSS
VII EUROSOIL 2025 & X Congreso Ibérico de la Ciencia del Suelo

Date: September 8th – 12th, 2025
Location: Seville, Spain

EUROSOIL is the official meeting of the European Confederation of Soil Science Societies (ECSSS). It is held every four years and is one of Europe’s most important Soil Sciences events. It provides an excellent opportunity for knowledge transfer among the Soil Sciences community. Over 2000 participants are expected to attend the event and present their findings through oral and poster presentations encompassing all scientific aspects of Soil Science. The event will also feature workshops, and an exhibition of products and services aimed at raising awareness in society, facilitating the exchange of ideas and information, and creating business opportunities offering a platform for researchers, scholars and professionals to exchange knowledge, insights, and innovations. Additionally, during this edition of EUROSOIL, the Iberian Congress of Soil Sciences (CICS) will also be held along with the 1st European Soil Judging Contest in Alicante, one week before the event in Seville.

Registration:
https://www.eurosoil2025.eu/eurosoil2025/call-abstracts/guidelines

Abstracts Submission:
https://www.eurosoil2025.eu/eurosoil2025/registration/registration-fees

Deadline:
15 May 2025: Regular abstract submission deadline
31 May 2025: Abstract notification to authors
15 June 2025: Regular registration deadline
15 July 2025: Last minute submission (only posters)
8 September 2025: EUROSOIL 2025 starts

e-mail: eurosoil@viajeseci.es

Soil Science Australia
Symposium for the Use of Organic Soil Amendments (SUOSA)
Date: 16 – 18 September, 2025
Location: Coolangatta QLD

Call for abstracts open now Photo M. Hampton The Symposium for the Use of Organic Soil Amendments (SUOSA) will take place on the Southern Gold Coast from 16 to 18 September 2025, bringing together experts from agriculture, environmental sciences, economics, and policy to discuss the benefits, challenges, and future directions for the use of organic soil amendments in agricultural and horticultural production systems. This multi-disciplinary event will explore the agronomic, environmental, societal, regulatory and policy dimensions of using both solid and liquid organic amendments, which include raw or processed animal manures, agricultural residues, food and fibre processing residues, and urban organic residues, and where processing can include composting, pyrolysing, drying, digesting, insect farming, pelletising, granulating, value adding, etc. Discussions will address nutrient management, soil health, carbon sequestration, circular economy, regulatory frameworks, and farmer benefits and adoption. With contributions from leading researchers, government policymakers, industry experts, and producers, SUOSA 2025 aims to foster collaboration and inform real-world strategies for sustainable soil management and farming systems.
Read more: https://www.crown-compost.com.au/

Serbian Society of Soil Science

The Soil Re-Union: Science for Healthy Soils, 4th International and 16th National Congress

Date: October 20th – 23rd, 2025
Location: Vrdnik, Fruške Terme, Serbia

The Congress will bring together scientists, institutions, and stakeholders from the Western Balkans, Europe, Eurasia, and beyond, uniting disciplines, geographical regions, and generations around the mission of soil regeneration and sustainable land management. The Congress will provide a great opportunity for discussions and presentations on the latest advancements in soil science.
The Congress will feature:
– Inspiring keynotes, panel discussions, and project-to-project networking,
– A special platform for showcasing ongoing projects,
– A vibrant EXPO area for institutions and initiatives aligned with soil science,
And a rich cultural and social program reflecting the spirit of Fruška Gora.

In the attachment, you’ll find the following materials ready for sharing: announcement, the first call, and the visual elements of the Congress. Should you require any additional content or formats, we are fully at your disposal.

Important dates: Notification of abstract acceptance: within one month after submission

Abstract submission deadline for early registration: May 1st, 2025
Early registration payment deadline: by June 1st, 2025
Mid registration payment deadline: by August 15th, 2025
Abstract submission deadline: September 1st, 2025
Final Congress program: by mid-September 2025

Read more: https://sdpz.rs/congress/

Venue: www.frusketerme.com

Austrian Soil Science Society

International Symposium 2025
Molecular modeling in soil science – achievements and perspectives
Centre Européen de Calcul Atomique et Moléculaire (CECAM-AT)

Date: September 24th-26th, 2025
Location: BOKU University, Vienna, Austria

It is undeniable the major role of soils in ecosystem functions at very different spatial and temporal scales (local and global) from microscopic to macroscopic phenomena. In view of the great demand for information regarding best practices for soil use and management, as well as remediation, new methods traditionally used in other areas have come into play to provide a better understanding of important soil processes and functions. With the arrival of powerful and more efficient computers, molecular modeling has become an important tool, offering insights into scales unattainable experimentally, being able to simulate complex molecular systems. The application of such methods in soil science has proven success to understand the interactions within soil at microscopic level, key to determine the fate of pollutants.
This symposium represents an opportunity to bring together scientists of high prestige in different areas of molecular modeling applied to soil science to discuss the state-of-the-art, promote meaningful discussions and contrast in-depth points of view to determine future perspectives and challenges regarding molecular modeling applied to soil science. Furthermore, the symposium presents an opportunity to foster cooperation and dissemination of knowledge on methods for the simulation of representative soil models, according to today’s needs as well as the prediction of physicochemical properties.
Plenary sessions:

Advances of MM methods in soil science
Soil minerals
Soil organic matter (SOM)
Interactions of minerals and SOM
Fate of contaminants in soils

Registration deadline: July 18, 2025
Read more: https://www.cecam.org/workshop-details/1393

SUITMA13 International Conference

Date: October 5th – 9th, 2025
Location: Pisa, Italy

The Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems (IRET) of the National Research Council (CNR) on behalf of the International Union of Soil Science (IUSS), is pleased to invite colleagues from all around the world to participate in the SUITMA (Soils of Urban, Industrial, Traffic, Mining and Military Areas) 13th international conference, which will be held in Pisa, Italy, from the 5 -9 October 2025, at the CNR (Italian National Research Council) in Pisa.
The conference will focus on “SUITMA from a One Health Perspective”. Soil is a key component of the water and nutrient cycle, and a major contributor to global carbon sequestration. Soil also provides habitats for nearly all land plants, as well as a large proportion of terrestrial fauna. Despite its global importance, it is estimated that one third of global soil is degraded. In anthropized areas, soils undergo many forms of disturbance: manipulation, compaction, and pollution which impact their quality. However, even degraded soils have the potential to alleviate environmental problems and play a vital role in supporting vegetation. Degraded soils of urban areas and other anthropogenic lands merit scientific and professional attention in order to enhance their ecosystem services and to support nature- based solutions, to tackle the urgent challenges of climate change, and for the health of all organisms and ecosystems.
Topics:
• SUITMA as sink and source of pollutants – Keywords: geochemical cycles, urban food production.
• SUITMA to conserve and improve soil quality and biodiversity – Keywords: soil remediation, soil biology, bioindicators of soil quality and functionality, genomics.
• SUITMA improvers and ecosystem services – Keywords: waste materials for soil construction, compost, rubble, mine waste, Technosols.
• SUITMA challenges for the future – Keywords: pedology, Anthropocene, war contamination, emerging contaminants.

Deadlines:
Abstract submission: 2 May 2025
Abstract acceptance: 31 May 2025
Early bird registration: 10 June 2025

News from national and regional soil science societies
2026

Field International Workshop on Paleopedology “Deciphering the ancient anthropic landscape transformation in the southern Maya lowlands in Mexico”

Date: February 19th – 25th, 2026
Location: Palenque, Mexico

The workshop objective is to show different landscapes occupied by the ancient Mayas, from the northern alluvial plain of the Usumacinta River, where people mainly developed small and rural towns, to the highlands at Sierra de Chiapas, where monumental and well-organized cities were constructed. The workshop will consist of two-day conferences and five days of field excursions. During the first two days of the workshop, oral and poster presentations will be conducted. The scientific topics include:
– Soil memory: a key guide for understanding past environmental and human impacts.
– Micromorphology of key pedogenetic processes. Linking microscopic observations and analytical data for differentiating anthropic and natural soil processes.
– Classification of soils in archaeological sites.
– Pedogenesis of anthropogenic soils and ecosystems.
– Novel methods and techniques and quantitative approaches in paleosol studies.

Conference Organizers:
• International Union of Soil Science, IUSS Division 1. Soil in Space and Time, Commission 1.6 – Paleopedology.
• International Union for Quaternary Research, INQUA Working Group.
• Instituto de Geología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico (UNAM).
• Instituto de Ecología A.C. (INECOL).
National Organizing Committee:
• Instituto de Geología, UNAM
Elizabeth Solleiro –solleiro@geologia.unam.mx
Sergey Sedov – serg_sedov@yahoo.com
Daisy Valera – daisyvalera1988@gmail.com
Jaime Díaz – biotic08@gmail.com
• Instituto de Ecología A.C., INECOL
Lilit Pogosyan – lilit.pogosyan@inecol.mx

Soil Science Society of China (SSSC)
The 23rd World Congress of Soil Science – Call for Parallel Session Topics
Date: 7th -12th June, 2026
Location: Nanjing, China
The World Congress of Soil Science is the most authoritative and influential international conference in the field, sponsored by the International Union of Soil Sciences. It is a major event for scientific and technological professionals in soil science and related disciplines worldwide to engage in academic exchange. Held every four years, the conference covers a wide range of topics and serves as a platform for exchange and collaboration among soil scientists from around the globe.
The WCSS2026 theme, ‘Soil and the Shared Future for Mankind’ focuses on the importance of soil for our future, with a variety of arrangements including poster exhibition, young researcher forum and soil judging contest. Tours will also be organized for participants to visit typical soils in combination with unique landscapes and cultural diversification as China is a vast country with rich soil resources.
With a global population that is projected to exceed 9 billion by 2050, our current and future food security hinges on our ability to increase yields and food quality using the soils that we already have available today. We are responsible for the soils that provide us with food, water and air, and we need to take action today to ensure that we have healthy soils for a sustainable and food secure future. Our understanding of the importance is developing rapidly and the WCSS2026 provides a platform for us to discover the solutions to soil issues and an opportunity to connect all who work with and have interests in soils.
Important dates and deadlines:
May 31st, 2025: Notification of session proposal acceptance
June 01st, 2025: Online registration open
July, 2025: Abstract submission open
November 07th, 2025: Deadline for abstract submission
February 07th, 2026: Notification of abstract acceptance
March 07th, 2026: Deadline for early registration; Deadline for regular registration; Cancellation and refund
Read more: https://www.23wcss.org.cn/

Conferences, Meetings and Workshops
2025

Workshop on Palaeosoil Analysis in Late Glacial Sandy Terrains Across Europe

Date: May 5th -7th, 2025
Location: unique and protected environment of the Deliblato Sands, Serbia. Plava Dama Hotel facilities (Banatski Karlovac, Serbia)

This is a workshop on late glacial palaeosoils in sandy terrains across Europe of the multidisciplinary international team of the TERPRO INQUA Project PAST
The overarching goal of PAST is to take first steps in building a comprehensive Upper Pleistocene palaeosoil database from dunes and sandy terrains across Europe. This single-year INQUA project aims to lay the foundation for a future multi-year research initiative.

13th Plenary Assembly of the Global Soil Partnership – FAO

Date: June 3rd -5th, 2025
Location: Plenary hall at FAO headquarters and online

The Plenary Assembly constitutes the decision making body of the Global Soil Partnership. It embraces all the GSP partners in a yearly meeting to review and prioritize GSP actions while facilitating a balanced regional decision-making process.

18th International Symposium on Soil and Plant Analysis.
Advancing Agricultural Science for Global Sustainability

Date: June 9th -13rd, 2025
Pre-Symposium Workshop: June 9th. Post-Symposium Tour: June 14th-16th
Location: Durham, North Carolina USA

The Soil and Plant Analysis Council (SPAC) announces that registration, sponsorship opportunities, and a call for abstracts for the 18th International Symposium on Soil and Plant Analysis (ISSPA) are now open. The meeting of ISSPA 2025 is hosted by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and North Carolina State University and will take place in Durham, North Carolina, USA, June 9 – 13, 2025, in partnership with the Australasian Soil and Plant Analysis Council, Agri-Laboratory Association of Southern Africa, and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization’s Global Soil Partnership.

XLIII SICA Congress – The Contribution of the Agricultural Chemistry to Healthy and Resilient Agroecosystems and to the One Health Vision

Date: June 23rd –25th, 2025
Location: Padua, Italy

The conference will focus on the theme of One Health, and on the contribution that Agricultural Chemistry can offer to this holistic vision which considers human health inextricably linked to the quality and safety of food, soil and environmental health, availability of natural resources and safe reuse and recycling of manufactured natural and artificial materials.
The One Health vision is recognized in Italy, by the European Commission, and by the United Nations as a model to be pursued to ensure the planet and humanity a sustainable global development in the current scenario of unprecedented environmental changes. The SICA, owing to its diverse competences and skills is committed to expanding knowledge and contributing to the realization of numerous specific objectives of the One Health approach, promoting soil and plant health, reducing the environmental impact of agricultural production, devising strategies for maximizing the recycling of matter and energy, and evaluating the quality and safety of primary plant food.
The conference will be organized in five sessions, each introduced by a keynote lecture by international scientists, followed by oral presentations on the topics of soil chemistry and biochemistry, plant biochemistry and physiology, biomass and materials recycling in agriculture and food quality and safety.
The XLIII SICA Conference will continue the experience of the Focus Groups organized and conducted by young researchers for discussing hot topics relevant to the conference main theme.
The Conference will be held in the magnificent heart of Padua at walking distance from all the buildings and monuments belonging to the UNESCO World Heritage Patrimony.
Deadline:
Abstract submission: May 9th, 2025
Online registrations and payments at the regular price: May 9th, 2025

Read more: https://sica2025.azuleon.org/

17th Symposium on Bacterial Genetics and Ecology – BAGECO 2025 – Bacteria drive our planet’s health
(in conjunction with the 11th Theodor Escherich Symposium)

Date: July 1st – 4th, 2025
Location: Graz, University Library Graz, Austria

Main topics of the symposium are:
• Defining pathogens from an ecological perspective
• Anthropocene and biogeochemical cycles
• Soil microbiome and One Health
• The human microbiome in health and disease
• Food-gut microbiome axis
• Microbiome engineering for sustainable agriculture
• Microbial production systems and artificial intelligence Submit your abstract until
The scientific programme will be published on the conference website in spring 2025.

Read more: https://bageco.org/

Global Conference on Sandy Soils
Shifting Sands to Sustainable Solutions

Date: July 21st-24th, 2025
Location: Perth, Western Australia

This conference will build and strengthen the international network of researchers with expertise on sandy soils. The conference theme ‘Shifting Sands to Sustainable Solutions’ is focused on the challenges of managing and protecting the natural capital of sandy soils in the face of a changing climate.

Main topics of the symposium are:
• Climate change and sandy landscapes
• Sand distribution and formation
• Monitoring, mapping and sensors
• Soil properties-analytical techniques
• Agricultural systems (irrigated and dryland)
• Natural systems
• Engineered systems
• Soil and water conservation
• Soil Fertility
• Overcoming constraints to plant growth

Key dates:
Early bird close: 4 June 2025

Read more: www.sandysoils.org

The 10th International Acid Sulfate Soils Conference
Date: Conference – September 15th-17th, 2025
Excursion – September 18th-20th, 2025
Location: Luleå, Sweden

We are delighted to invite you to the 10th edition of the International Acid Sulfate Soils Conference (IASSC), celebrating over three decades of groundbreaking research and collaboration in the field of acid sulfate soils. As the leading interdisciplinary platform for acid sulfate soil research, management, and policy development, the IASSC brings together researchers, industry professionals, environmental managers, and policymakers from around the world to share knowledge and advance the field. Over the course of three days, the conference will feature a rich program of oral and poster presentations, highlighting the latest research and cutting-edge advancements in the field. In addition to the main conference sessions, we are excited to offer pre- and post-conference excursions that will explore the unique landscapes and environmental challenges of northern Sweden and Finland. These excursions will provide valuable insights into the practical applications of acid sulfate soil management in the region, offering a unique opportunity to engage with local experts and experience the environment firsthand.

For any inquiries, feel free to reach out to our conference team.
Conference-related questions: sarah.conrad@ltu.se
Excursion-related questions: anton.boman@gtk.fi
Read more: https://event.trippus.net/Home/Index/AEAKgINaZaTdCFzBKUcmTlLR9EZJnOe_7IMVKbLfLB10EZD5nrx0n7RnIkUT7ob0MOVWwsr29RiG/AEAKgIPmAO63b8dcXtm99Oas7FVacW0oEMV8IpPQ2FskOAqru2UClkW25UR7fvWVVZjQPoPNU3_j/eng

The 6th WASWAC World Conference. Resilient Landscapes: Innovations and Traditions in Climate-Adaptive Soil and Water Conservation (RISE-SWC)

Date: September 15th-17th, 2025
Location: Rabat, Morocco

World Association for Soil and Water Conservation (WASWAC), in collaboration with the Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), organizes the 6th WASWAC World Conference. The conference will provide an exchange platform for soil and water resources conservation on a global scale, fostering collaboration among scientists, experts, policymakers, and practitioners from around the world. The conference aims to propose actionable solutions that can strengthen global efforts to combat climate change impacts on soil and water systems, support sustainable development, and promote technological and scientific advancements in these critical fields.

Sub-themes:
1. Impact of climate change on soil erosion and coping strategies
2. The role of water resources management in addressing climate change
3. Challenges and opportunities of land use planning and management in the context of climate change
4. Integration of traditional wisdom and modern technology in soil and water management
5. Social and economic considerations in soil and water management
6. Strategic shifts in soil and water conservation practices and technologies to address climate change
7. Monitoring and early warning mechanisms in soil and water management
8. Soil and water conservation in production and construction projects

Deadlines:
Last date of abstract submission: May 30th, 2025
Intimation of acceptance of abstracts: June 30th, 2025

Second International Forum on Agroecosystem Living Labs

Date: October 15 to 17, 2025
Location: Bordeaux, France

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to the Second International Forum on Agroecosystem Living Labs, building on the success of the first Forum held in Montreal in 2023. That event brought together the international community of agroecosystem living labs to reflect on research, implementation, and practical lessons learned from applying this approach around the world.
The French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE) and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) are once again collaborating to organize this event, which will take place in Bordeaux, France, from October 15 to 17, 2025.
The Forum will feature panel discussions and parallel scientific sessions aimed at establishing leading practices, sharing case study insights, and addressing the challenges faced by the international agroecosystem living lab community. It will also include networking events and field visits, designed to foster dialogue and provide an inspiring space for collaboration and action.
Read more: https://www.inrae.fr/en/events/2025-international-forum-agroecosystem-living-labs

10th edition FESP (Fire Effects on Soil Properties)
Date: November 25th -28th, 2025
Location: UFRO, Pucón Campus, Chile

Organized by the Universidad de la Frontera and La Universidad de los Lagos.

The conference website will be available very soon with all the information.

Read more: For now more information you can write to: fesp10@ufrontera.cl

Opportunities

Introduction to Methods and Technologies for Precision Agriculture

Date: June 23rd – 27th, 2025
Location: Experimental Farm of the University of Padua, Viale dell’Università, 4, Legnaro, Padua, Italy

The course is organized by the Italian Society of Agronomy (SIA) and the University of Padua, Italy.
It will cover the use of proximal and remote sensing aimed at the application of precision agriculture. The programme will mix of theoretical aspects (morning) and practical sessions (afternoon), which consist of the description and use of various instruments (geophysical sensors, multi- and hyperspectral cameras, drones, etc.), software for spatial data analysis, and devices for sitespecific management of irrigation and fertilization.

Those interested in participating are invited to submit their application by filling out the form available at the link by 15 May 2025: https://forms.office.com/e/epBEkb6N7L

Acceptance of applications will be communicated by May 20, 2025, along with the registration form. On the same date, accepted candidates must complete the course fee payment.

Soil Biology Lab Skills Course for Assessing Soil Functions
Date: September 1st – 5th, 2025
Location: Wageningen University, the Netherlands

The Soil Biology Group of Wageningen University is organising a laboratory skills course to define which measurements of soil biology are relevant for which soil functions. This course will provide the participants with an overview of a range of methods related to the five soil functions and will provide detailed practical training in a subset of measures. The training will be a combination of lectures, laboratory and field sessions (interactive lectures and practical sessions each day). Assessing a range of measurement types, from simple visual assessments in the field, to training in microscope identification techniques for nematodes and earthworms, and functional measures in the lab such as MicroResp. All methods described in the course will be made available to participants as well as advice on how to analyse the data.

Grounding Carbon Farming course

Date: 13th – 19th September 2025
Location: Dampierre-en-Bray, Normandy, France

Organised by: WIMEK graduate school in collaboration with Soil biology and Environmental policy groups (Wageningen University).

Duration: 5 full days during a week on site on a farm in Normandy, France. Arrival night of the 13th, departure in the morning on the 19th.
As the climate changes, the environment degrades, biodiversity declines and the world population increases, agricultural ecosystems are increasingly looked at, both as culprit and saviours. Agroecosystems and their soils are indeed key to support a multitude of ecosystem services, but their degradation worldwide jeopardises this ability.
Carbon farming is proposed as a solution. One approach – soil carbon sequestration – to solve the climate crisis and revert environmental degradation caused by agriculture while feeding a growing world population.

Other News

EU Soil Law, (provisional) Agreement between the European Parliament and the Council

The European Soil Monitoring Law takes a step forward. The Council of the Union, which brings together representatives of the Member States, has reached a provisional agreement with representatives of the EU Parliament. This is a shared text of the directive which, in the objectives of the Commission that proposed it, will have to help achieve the goal of restoring continental soils to health by 2050.
The directive will have the task of establishing a framework for soil monitoring, capable of improving resilience and managing the risks of contaminated sites. It will also define the principles of mitigation of soil consumption, with particular attention to sealing and soil removal.
Poland holds the rotating presidency of the Council and Paulina Hennig-Kloska, Polish Minister for Climate and Environment said: “With the agreement reached, we have established the first ever EU framework for soil assessment and monitoring across Europe. It is time to act, as more than 60% of Europe’s soils are unhealthy and their condition is deteriorating. Healthy and resilient soil is crucial to ensuring healthy and nutritious food and cleaner water for future generations.” The agreement also pleases the EU Commission which says: “This is an important step to address the urgent challenges related to soil health that impact all European countries, the resilience of our food chain and the economy in general. The new law will also help strengthen soil resilience to natural disasters, heatwaves and extreme weather events, as well as other critical environmental challenges, such as erosion, contamination and biodiversity loss.”

Soil Call for Nominations for Officers and Executive Committee Members

Call for Nominations for Officers and Executive Committee Members
34th CODATA General Assembly, 17-18 October 2025, Brisbane, Australia.
The following Offices are open for nomination and election:
Secretary General (1 position);
Treasurer (1 position);
Executive Committee Ordinary Members (10 positions).

Deadline: June 17th, 2025

New Books

Soil Science: An Extension Perspective

By Sanjay Kumar Raina, Subhash Chand et all., Ed. Satish Serial Publishing House, SSPH, 2025

“Soil Science: An Extension Perspective” offers a comprehensive exploration of soil science principles, management practices, and extension education strategies designed to empower farmers, landowners, and communities in making informed decisions for sustainable soil management and agricultural development. By providing practical guidance, case studies, and success stories, this book serves as an invaluable resource for extension professionals, educators, policy-makers, and individuals passionate about promoting soil health and environmental stewardship. Through its rich content, the book aims to inspire action, foster collaboration, and facilitate knowledge exchange to address the challenges and opportunities in soil conservation and sustainable agriculture. Whether you are a seasoned extension agent seeking new insights or a novice farmer eager to learn, “Soil Science: An Extension Perspective” offers a wealth of information and inspiration to guide you on your journey towards building resilient and productive soil ecosystems for future generations.

ISBN: 9789353875473
Read more: https://www.satishserial.com/book/9789353875473/soil-science-an-extension-perspective

The State of Food and Agriculture 2024
Value-driven transformation of agrifood systems

By FAO, Ed. FAO, 2024

Uncovering the true cost of food is the first step in making agrifood systems more inclusive, resilient and sustainable. As The State of Food and Agriculture 2023 revealed, agrifood systems activities generate significant benefits for society, but also have negative impacts on economic, social and environmental sustainability. The quantified hidden costs of agrifood systems amount to around 10 percent of global gross domestic product. Therefore, strategic action is necessary, and all agrifood systems actors ‒ from producers and agribusinesses to consumers and governments ‒ have a crucial role to play. While transforming agrifood systems would yield a net global gain, the benefits and costs would be unevenly distributed among stakeholders and countries over time. The State of Food and Agriculture 2024 builds on the findings of the 2023 edition, delving deeper into the use of true cost accounting assessments of agrifood systems and identifying policy interventions aimed at transformation. Using updated global datasets, the report confirms previous estimates of the quantified hidden costs of agrifood systems and provides a detailed breakdown of the hidden costs associated with unhealthy dietary patterns and non-communicable diseases for 156 countries. These findings are analysed through the lens of six agrifood systems categories to take into account various outcomes and hidden costs that require different policy interventions. Case studies offering in-depth assessments of country, local and value chain contexts illustrate the economic, social and environmental impacts of current practices to guide policy interventions. Crucial to all contexts is the need for inclusive stakeholder consultations to inform interventions and reconcile power imbalances and trade-offs.

ISBN: 978-92-5-139140-2

Annotated reference list of training documents on Farmer Field Schools on forestry and agroforestry
A toolbox for master trainers and facilitators

By Kessler, K.; Phillips, S.; Diaz Diaz, J.V.; Ed. FAO, 2025

This annotated reference list is the direct result of the identified need and key recommendations of the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO) stocktaking study of Farmer Field Schools (FFS).The stocktaking study was applied to forestry to update technical resources, identify discovery-learning activities and document and share lessons and FFS curricula on forestry and agroforestry. The study confirmed the potential of FFS to support capacity building and the empowerment of rural people in the use of forests and trees. It showed that FFS can support diversification of production and can improve livelihoods while contributing to the mitigation of climate change and the restoration of the ecosystem. The annotated reference list contains a compilation of training materials, guides and curricula that apply the FFS approach to achieve advanced capacity building in forestry and agroforestry. Additional training documents that have been included do not apply all FFS principles, but apply the key components of its human-centred, participatory learning approach. This compilation provides an overview of 31 selected training materials in English, French and Spanish. These materials were published by FAO, international government and non-governmental organizations and partners. Experiences across Africa, Asia and the Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean, and 14 different countries were included as examples. Topics comprise natural resource management, community forestry, woodlot development, agrobiodiversity, forest management, trees outside forests, forest gardens, nurseries, cocoa, integrated farm management and enterprise development.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.4060/cd4466en
ISBN: 978-92-5-139644-5

Communication

To IUSS Commission and Working Group Chairs: you are kindly requested to inform the Secretariat whenever there is a change within your Commission and/or Working Group officers. In this way, it will be possible to keep the IUSS Officers Mailing List regularly updated.

To IUSS Full Members: please do not forget to let the Secretariat know about your new President, Secretary, Contact Person. This will be vital in keeping the mailing list updated, so you will not miss out any communication.

Please provide the new name, surname, position and e-mail address to: iuss.secretariat@crea.gov.it

If you are interested in promoting your product or book, event, job call in our Alert, please send an email to iuss.secretariat@crea.gov.it.