IUSS Alert 241 (November 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 are published in the monthly current issue. Let’s keep our community posted on the progress of Soil Sciences.

Highlighted IUSS publications

By Division 1

The Evolution of (Digital) Pedology – drawing from the past, adapting to the future
By Alex McBratney, Sandra J. Evangelista, Julio C. Pachón Maldonado, Quentin Styc, Nicolas Francos, Amin Sharififar, José Padarian
Geoderma – Volume 463, November 2025, 117588

Pedology, the study of soil formation and evolution in space and time, has evolved significantly over the past century, with major advancements in understanding soil formation, classification, and management. This evolution has been shaped by a variety of approaches, including soil profile analysis, soil genesis studies, and the development of soil classification systems. Recent technological innovations, such as digital soil mapping, proximal soil sensing, and mobile applications, have revolutionised the field, allowing for more efficient and comprehensive data collection, mapping, and analysis. However, several challenges remain, including the need for improved numerical classification systems, more accurate process-based soil-landscape models, and better understanding of human impacts on soil evolution. The future of soil science promises further advancements through machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, robotic measurement, and mega-computation, potentially enabling real-time, global soil monitoring. At the same time, concerns about the over-reliance on digital tools, the integration of AI, and the need for continued fieldwork persist. As human activity increasingly influences soil processes, a shift toward a more soil-centric approach to environmental sustainability is crucial. This paper highlights the ongoing evolution of pedology and the importance of integrating new technologies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and global advocacy for soil security in the anthropocene.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geoderma.2025.117588

MEDAL

VLADIMIR FRIDLAND SOIL GEOGRAPHY MEDAL

The Vladimir Markovich Fridland Medal was introduced by IUSS Commission 1.2. – Soil Geography to commemorate Prof. Vladimir M. Fridland for his distinguished contribution to soil geography. This IUSS medal is awarded for outstanding and sustained contribution in the discipline of geography and cartography of soils.
Professor Vladimir M. Fridland is well known among soil scientists and geographers in the world for his contribution to several spheres in soil genesis, geography and soil mapping, part of which is his theory of soil cover pattern.
The awardees must demonstrate an outstanding and sustained performance in the discipline of geography and cartography of soils. All areas of soil geography including research, teaching and its application to environmental, agricultural and technogenic problems are considered relevant. The medal is not invested posthumously.
PERIODICITY OF NOMINATION: the Vladimir M. Fridland Soi Geography Medal is currently awarded every four years and presented at the World Congress of Soil Science of the IUSS.
The nominees may be proposed by institutions, societies, commissions and working groups of the IUSS, and individuals. Members of the Award committee are not eligible to make nominations or second nominations.
The proposal for nomination must be submitted to the Award committee chair, and should include:
• Statement of key achievements and career highlights of the nominee (1 page)
• Curriculum vitae detailing career history and publication record of the nominee
• Name of proposer and seconder for the nominee
• Any other relevant information in support of the nominee
• Full address and contact details of the nominee
NOMINATION PROCEDURE: the call for the nominations is publicized during the year before the date of the award, via the Commission Business Meetings and/or IUSS Alerts. The selection committee for the Fridland Gold Medal award is composed of the representative of the medal sponsor (Dokuchaev Soil Science Society) plus the Chair (the Chair of this Committee) and past Chair of IUSS Commission 1.2. Soil Geography In 2025/2026 the deadline for nominations is 07.12.2025. The packages of documents should be sent to the e-mail sergey.gory@gmail.com.

Guy Smith Medal Award 2026 – Invitation to Propose Nominees by February 28, 2026

Dear Colleagues:
The Guy Smith Medal is awarded for outstanding contributions to the development of soil classification.

The IUSS Guy Smith Medal Award Committee is pleased to invite you to propose nominees for the forthcoming Guy Smith Medal Award:
https://www.iuss.org/awards-medals-and-prizes/guy-smith-medal/
The next award will be handed over during the Nanjing 23rd World Congress of Soil Science (https://www.23wcss.org.cn/), to be organized from June 7 to 12, 2026 by the Soil Science Society of China.

Criteria for selection:
The nominee should have the following qualifications:
1. She/he must have made a significant scientific contribution that has advanced the field of soil classification, and
2. Be a published author in the field of soil classification, and
3. Be an active member, Honorary member, or formerly active member of a national or international soil science professional society, and
4. The medal is not invested posthumously, and
5. Present officers of IUSS Commission Soil Classification cannot be nominated.
The proposal for nomination should comprise a short text, including the main steps of the scientific career of the nominee, her/his most relevant scientific publications and major contributions to the development of soil classification.

We look forward to receiving your proposals by February 28, 2026.
CVs of the nominees and a motivation letter should be sent to:
Peter Schad <peter.schad@tum.de>, with copy to Maria Gerasimova <maria.i.gerasimova@gmail.com> and to Lucia Anjos <lanjos@ufrrj.br>

Yours Sincerely,

Prof. Peter Schad
Chair of Soil Science
Technical University of Munich, Germany

Prof. Maria Gerasimova
Department of Soil Geography and Landscape Geochemistry
Faculty of Geography, Moscow Lomonosov State University
Moscow, Russia

Prof. Lúcia Helena C. Anjos
Soils Department, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ)
Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Prof. Dr. Wulf Amelung receives Philippe Duchaufour Medal 2025
At this year’s General Assembly of the European Geosciences Union (EGU), Prof. Dr. Wulf Amelung, a long-standing member of the German Soil Science Society (DBG) and former DBG Vice President, has been awarded the prestigious Philippe Duchaufour Medal, the highest award of EGU in Soil System Science, in recognition of his outstanding scientific contributions to the field.
Wulf Amelung is head of the group General Soil Science and Soil Ecology at the University of Bonn and of the unit Agrosphere of the Institute of Bio- and Geosciences at the Forschungszentrum Jülich. His research focuses on nutrient cycles, soil functions, and innovative analytical approaches in soil ecology.

News from the IUSS

Soil monitoring: Parliament adopts new EU law with better support for farmers

According to the new law, member states will have to monitor and assess soil health across their territories using common soil descriptors – characterizing the physical, chemical, and biological aspect of soil health for each soil type – and an EU methodology for sampling points. To make it simpler for member states, they will be free to build on national soil monitoring campaigns or other equivalent methodologies. The Commission will support member states by reinforcing its current EU soil sampling programme: LUCAS Soils. It will also offer tailor-made financial and technical support.
To reflect different levels of soil degradation and local conditions, national governments will set non-binding, sustainable targets for each soil descriptor, in line with the overall objective of improving soil health.

Decade of Soil Sciences for Sustainable Development 2025-2034 – Healthy Soils for Humanity
The new decade of soil sciences for sustainable development has begun, read the manifesto and download the logo here: https://www.iuss.org/decade-of-soil-sciences-for-sustainable-development/
The Decade aims to prioritize production, dissemination, and use of actionable scientific knowledge across all areas of soil sciences to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Divisions, Commissions, and Working Groups are encouraged to coordinate with the IUSS Research Forum in planning activities aligned with the themes of the Decade. These may include special issues, books, position papers, policy briefs, webinars, conferences, workshops, sessions at the World Congress of Soil Science (WCSS), and other relevant initiatives.

Division and Commission Officers Election – 2026 and members of the Standing Committees Election 2026

The process for the election of the new Divisions and Commissions Officers and Chair of the Standing Committees, has officially started, the IUSS Members have been notified by the Secretary and provided with the Guidelines for the procedure, the list of the available positions and the official nomination form. The elections will be completed at the very beginning of the new year, and the names and positions will be published on the IUSS Alert.

Election Calendar and Deadlines
Opening of the voting system for your society members: December 20, 2025
Closing of the voting system for your society members: March 20, 2026
Notification to the Electoral Committee and Secretariat: within April 30, 2026
Winners’ announcement: within May 31, 2026

Download the Division and Commission Chair Nomination Form
Download the Standing Committee Member Nomination Form
Download the IUSS 2026 Election Guidelines

World Soil Day (WSD) 2025
Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities

In celebration of World Soil Day (WSD) 2025, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), its Global Soil Partnership (GSP), the European Union through its EU Mission, “A Soil Deal for Europe” and the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) are launching the “Tiny soil detectives” contest.
This contest invites young people to explore the hidden world beneath their feet. Urban soils may seem invisible, but they cool our streets, soak up rainwater, grow food, and sustain life: even in the tiniest cracks. Through fun, hands-on experiments, kids will become “urban soil detectives,” observing, testing and documenting their discoveries to uncover how soil shapes life in their neighbourhoods.

More information and submission deadline: https://www.fao.org/global-soil-partnership/resources/highlights/detail/en/c/1743033/

World Soil Day celebration
“Healthy soils for healthy cities”

Date: Friday, 5 December 2025 (10:00 – 11:30 CET)

Hybrid format (online and in Sala Spadolini (tbc), Ministry of Culture of Italy, Rome)

Healthy soils are essential for life and are celebrated each year on World Soil Day (5 December). The 2025 theme, “Healthy soils for healthy cities”, highlights the crucial role of urban soils and the threats posed by soil sealing, pollution, and rapid urbanization. As cities grow, protecting and restoring soils is key to supporting food production, water filtration, carbon storage, cooling, and biodiversity. Solutions such as de-sealing, green roofs, urban agriculture, composting, and sustainable planning can strengthen climate action and public well-being. World Soil Day 2025 calls on all stakeholders to rethink cities through the lens of soil health to build resilient, inclusive, and greener urban spaces.

On December 5th, CREA will host the official FAO inauguration of World Soil Day in the prestigious setting of the Palazzo del Collegio Romano in Rome, seat of the Ministry of Culture.

Afterward, a national-level celebratory event will take place. Thanks to the participation of researchers, companies, and public administrators engaged in thematic roundtables, the event will explore the interactions between soil, human activities, and the environment, going through challenges and suggesting evidence-based solutions and good practices. The focus will be on urban environment, waste, land remediation, field and crop management, and textile fibres, with a keen eye on sustainability and circular economy.
The event is organized in collaboration with IUSS and IUSS Secretariat, together with ReSoil Fundation.

Soil Mission Manifesto

The Mission Soil Manifesto (https://mission-soil-platform.ec.europa.eu/community/mission-soil-manifesto) calls for action to respond to the urgent need to protect and improve soil health in Europe and beyond and bring together regional and local policymakers, stakeholders and citizens into a vibrant community that cares for soil health. It was launched by the EU Mission Soil on April 18, 2023, and it has been signed by the IUSS President, Prof. Victor O. Chude.

Soil Science Society of China (SSSC) and IUSS

The 23rd World Congress of Soil Science (WCSS) – Soil and the Shared Future for Humanity

Date: 7th -12th June, 2026
Location: Nanjing, China

Nanjing Welcomes Global Soil Scientists for the 23rd World Congress of Soil Science

Soil Science Society of China successfully won the bid to host the 23rd World Congress of Soil Science (WCSS) in Brazil’s 21st WCSS. For the first time, China as a host country invites global soil scientists to explore the centennial journey of soil science.
The 23rd WCSS will be held in the International Expo Center from June 7 to 12, 2026 in Nanjing, the capital city of the most developed Jiangsu province, under the theme of “Soil and the Shared Future for Humanity”. 121 sessions in five categories have been accepted.
Deprived from the Chinese character “土” (Soil), the mascot KuiKui manifests the concept of “One World for One Earth”. The emblem on its belly represents the earth, with the inner circle featuring five typical soil colors in China, while the outer circle featuring the blue ocean.

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 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.

Read more: Join and follow via the official website: https://www.23wcss.org.cn/
Important dates and deadlines:
Abstract submission deadline: December 23, 2025
Abstract results notification: February 7, 2026
Early bird registration deadline: March 7, 2026
Regular registration deadline: May 7, 2026
Cancellation and Refund deadline: May 7, 2026

IUSS and Soil Science Society of China (SSSC)

Travel Awards for Attending World Congress of Soil Science 2026

The International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) and Soil Science Society of China (SSSC) are pleased to offer travel awards to support early-career scientists who wish to participate in the 23rd World Congress of Soil Science (WCSS2026) from 7-12 June 2026, in Nanjing China. This initiative aims to encourage the participation of promising graduate students and early-career researchers by providing financial assistance to help cover travel and registration expenses.
A total of 40,000 USD in funding is available, aiming for gender and geographic equity. Each selected applicant will be eligible to receive up to a maximum of 1,000 USD. The award will be disbursed as a reimbursement for actual travel costs and/or WCSS2026 registration fees incurred.
Support is only for early-career scientists who are high-quality Master or PhD students or who completed a Master or PhD degree less than 5 years ago.
Applicants must be the presenting author of a submitted oral or poster presentation abstract for WCSS2026 and must be a member of a council society (national soil science society) that is a full member of IUSS.
Applicants need to send their applications to: wcss2026@issas.ac.cn

All applications must be submitted in English and must include the following:
a) Application letter, in PDF format, specifying the amount of funding requested (max. 1,000 USD).
b) CV including gender, education, country of residence, publication list in PDF format, maximum two pages.
c) Abstract and its received confirmation for WCSS2026.
d) Proof of student status or copy of Master’s/PhD certificate.
e) Confirmation letter from your national soil science society verifying your membership

A dedicated evaluation committee, composed of selected members of the IUSS and SSSC Executive Committee, will review all applications. Successful applicants will be notified via email by the WCSS2026 organizing committee no later than 28 February 2026 (UTC+8).
The results will also be announced on the WCSS2026 (https://www.23wcss.org.cn/) and IUSS (https://www.iuss.org) official website. The decision of the evaluation committee will be final and no discussion on the outcome will be entered into.

Deadline: 24:00 (UTC+8) on 31 December 2025.
Contact: wcss2026@issas.ac.cn or +86-025-86881992

The Digital Age in the Study, Evaluation, and Teaching of Soil Science

Special session number 503003 IUSS 23rd World Congress on Soil Science

In the digital transformation era, we invite researchers and professionals to participate with us in this innovative session exploring the convergence between cutting-edge technologies and soil sciences. This pioneering session will address how digital tools revolutionize our understanding, management, and teaching of soil sciences. Participants will be able to observe the largest augmented and mixed reality applications that allow soil profiles to be visualized in real-time, facilitating on-site analysis and improving educational experience in the field. We will explore the development of mobile applications focused on soil resources, as well as the potential presents by the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced image analysis systems focused on soil sciences. This session represents a unique opportunity to establish international collaborations between soil scientists, software developers, and technology experts. Attendees will be able to share experiences on the implementation of innovative technological solutions in soil research and discuss the potential of these tools to address global challenges in soil conservation and sustainable management. In this sense, we are seeking contributions that highlight recent technological developments, successful case studies, and innovative proposals that combine soil sciences with these emerging technologies. This session will undoubtedly be a catalyst to inspire the next generations and foster the development of collaborative projects that harness the power of technology to advance our understanding of soils systems. Join this space where scientific tradition converges with digital innovation, creating new possibilities for research, education and soil management.

Contact : fernando.ayala@comunidad.unam.mx; leptosol@ciga.unam.mx

News from national and regional soil science societies 2025

British Society of Soil Science (BSSS)

Resilient Soils for a Sustainable Future – Annual Conference and Early Careers Conference BSSS

Date:
Biennial Early Careers Conference: December 1st –2nd, 2025
Annual Conference: December 3rd -5th, 2025
Location: Manchester, England

Call for Abstracts – British Society of Soil Science Annual Conference
The British Society of Soil Science is currently accepting oral and poster abstracts for both their Annual Conference and Early Careers Conference in December. The abstract review panel is accepting abstracts in one of five topics linked to the conference theme, Resilient Soils for a Sustainable Future:
1. Soils for People [Covering all aspects of Soil Health, Soil Functions, Indicators, Metrics, Ecosystem Service Delivery, Soil Biodiversity, and Sustainable Soils in Different Land Uses].
2. Soils for Climate [Covering aspects such as Net Zero, Carbon Sequestration, Peatlands, Climate Change Impacts, Adaptation and Mitigation, and Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Fluxes].
3. Soils for Water [Covering aspects such as Nutrient and Water management, Soil Erosion, and Nutrient and Water Use Efficiency].
4. Advances for Soils [Covering aspects such as Sensors and Instrumentation, New techniques, AI and data, Modelling, and Decision support tools].
5. Soils for Life [Soil, social sciences and culture, Interdisciplinary work, Stakeholder engagement, Participatory research and citizen science, and Art and culture].

German Soil Science

Rendzina – Soil of the Year 2025 in Germany

For 20 years now, the “Soil of the Year” has been selected by the board “Soil of the Year”, composed of members of the German Soil Science Society (DBG), the Federal Soil Association (BVB), and the Engineering Association for Contaminated Site Management and Land Recycling (ITVA). Each year, the selected soil is officially presented on World Soil Day, December 5, during a ceremony in the capital Berlin. The initiative is also strongly supported by the German Environment Agency (UBA).
The goal of the campaign is to raise public awareness of soils as vital natural resources. Through posters, flyers, brochures, websites, and exhibitions, it aims to engage a broad audience. Over the course of the year, a variety of events—including excursions and exhibitions—are organized by institutions at both regional and local level.
Over the past two decades, the focus of the campaign has shifted from a purely taxonomic presentation of specific soil types to a broader ecological perspective. It now highlights different land use systems and their interactions with soil. In 2023, the focus was on arable soils, emphasizing the importance of healthy food production. In 2024, forest soils were selected as “Soil of the Year”, drawing attention to carbon sequestration and water-related ecosystem services.
The Soil of the Year 2025 is the Rendzina—a shallow, humus-rich soil type that forms on limestone, dolomite, or gypsum bedrock, roughly corresponding to Rendzic Leptosols according to WRB. This year’s patron is Dr. Till Backhaus, Minister for Climate Protection, Agriculture, Rural Areas, and the Environment of the German federal state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Accordingly, special attention is being given to Rendzinas formed on Cretaceous limestone in the Baltic Sea region.
At the official presentation in Berlin, Dr. Backhaus highlighted that Rendzinas are more than just productive land for agriculture or forestry. They also serve as “habitats, geology you can touch, and a valuable part of our natural and cultural heritage.”
To explore these aspects further, a multi-day expert excursion will take place at the end of May, including a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Jasmund beech forest with its iconic chalk cliffs on the island of Rügen. The tour is being organized by the State Office for Environment, Nature Conservation and Geology of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania together with the German and Danish Soil Science Societies. On the Danish island of Møn, the participants will also have the opportunity of cross-border comparisons of Rendzina sites.

Read more: https://www.dbges.de/en/soil-of-the-year and visit the Soil of the Year page and the UBA Soil of the Year page

British Society of Soil Science
Early Careers’ Conference 2025
Date: 1–2 December, 2025
Location: King’s House Conference Centre, Manchester
Theme: Resilient Soils for a Sustainable Future
This dedicated event is free to attend for BSSS Early Career members and brings together emerging voices from academia, industry, and policy in a dynamic and inclusive space. Over the course of two packed days, delegates will explore the theme “Resilient Soils for a Sustainable Future” through a rich programme of oral and poster presentations, interactive workshops, and networking activities, all designed to highlight the latest research, innovations, and career development pathways in soil science.
Full details on abstract themes and submission guidelines can be found on the BSSS website.
Read more: https://members.soils.org.uk/widget/event-6210932?sk=cnxQtp/MQEse2UJPdSbMw2I/eJrP3lfywhtQ/+H5e4iKdfGDFGZCsHorG1ytHtqF

Annual Conference “Resilient Soils for a Sustainable Future”
Date: 3–5 December, 2025
Location: King’s House Conference Centre, Manchester
Dynamic, multi-disciplinary events will bring together researchers, practitioners, and policy makers across the built environment, agriculture, and natural sciences to explore the vital role of soils in supporting a sustainable future.
The overarching theme, Resilient Soils for a Sustainable Future, will guide three days of presentations, discussions, and networking opportunities. With global challenges such as climate change, food security, and biodiversity loss becoming increasingly urgent, the conference offers a timely platform to showcase cutting-edge research and debate key strategies for strengthening soil resilience.
Read more: https://members.soils.org.uk/event-6210965

Italian Society of Soil Science

44th SISS National Congress
Soil Research to Support Policy Implementation

Date: December 11th-12th, 2025
Location: Department of Agriculture, University of Naples Federico II – Chinese Room – Piazza Carlo di Borbone 1, Portici, Naples, Italy.

Despite the implementation of European, national, and regional policies aimed at sustainability in the agricultural and environmental sectors, and significant progress in research on soil and agricultural and forestry ecosystems, we are unfortunately still witnessing ongoing and worrying soil degradation.
This situation raises fundamental questions about the effectiveness of current strategies. Therefore, a thorough reflection on the gap between acquired scientific knowledge and its actual application in the field is urgently needed. We must ask ourselves to what extent and how our research actually influences policies for the protection and sustainable management of soil. This conference aims to be a forum for multidisciplinary debate, bringing together researchers, practitioners, and environmental policymakers to explore how academic research can translate into a tangible impact on soil management in real-world contexts.

The Conference will be held over two days:
• First day will include a technical excursion to contaminated and reclaimed sites in the province of Naples, during which two reclamation and recovery projects for contaminated agricultural and industrial areas will be presented, along with a round table discussion entitled “The Impact of Research on Soil Management: Illusion or Reality?”
• Second day will feature two scientific sessions entitled “Innovative Approaches to Soil Study at the Scale of Processes and Properties to Support Policy Implementation” and “Innovative Approaches and the Geospatial Dimension of Soil to Support Policy Implementation.”

Read more: https://convegnosiss2025.it/

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 objective of the workshop 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, Division 1. Soil in Space and Time, Commission 1.6 – Paleopedology.
– International Union for Quaternary Research, INQUA Paleopedology Working Group.
– Instituto de Geología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM).
– Instituto de Ecología A.C. (INECOL).

Important dates:
February 18, 2026: Arrival of participants
February 19-25, 2026: Workshop activities
February 26, 2026: Departure of participant

Conferences, Meetings and Workshops 2026

Conference on Variable Charge Soils
Date: March 4th – 6th, 2026
Location: Newcastle, Australia

This specialized conference will focus on the unique properties of variable charge soils, which play a critical role in nutrient dynamics, contaminant interactions, and sustainable agriculture, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. The event will highlight new advances in soil chemistry, management strategies, and their implications for food security and environmental protection. This conference is organized noting that we rarely take into consideration the differences in surface chemical properties of soils when designing management strategies- be these for fertility management or contaminants.

The 4th Global Soil Biodiversity Conference (GSB 2026)

Date: April 12th -15th, 2026
Location: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

The Global Soil Biodiversity Conferences organized under the auspices of the Global Soil Biodiversity Initiative (GSBI) are now considered to be the premier global conference dealing with soil biodiversity. The 4th edition of the GSB 2026 will bring together researchers, policy analysts, students, and practicing farmers to discuss soil biodiversity with the goals of informing the public, promoting this information into environmental policy, and overall creating a platform for the current and future sustainability of soils.

10th International Symposium on Soil Organic Matter (SOM2026)

Date: May 25th –29th, 2026
Location: University of São Paulo (USP), Brazil.

The X International Symposium on Soil Organic Matter (SOM2026) represents a unique opportunity to bring together the world’s leading scientific authorities in the areas of soil organic matter, carbon, regenerative agriculture, sustainable livestock, forestry and ecosystem restoration.
Under the theme “The Nexus of Healthy Soils and a Sustainable Future”, SOM2026 will bring together leading scientists, students, and professionals to discuss the latest advances in soil organic matter research and its pivotal role in addressing global sustainability challenges.

Read more: Official website = https://eventosccarbon.com.br

IFSA2026: Farming and Agri-Food Systems dynamics: facing crises and trade-offs in transition pathways

Date: June 29th – July 03rd, 2026
Location: Montpellier, France

As pressures from climate change, biodiversity loss, market uncertainty, and rising global food demand escalate, there is a growing need to consider how agricultural systems can be enhanced and reconfigured to withstand external shocks while advancing ecological, social, and economic sustainability. Responding to current crises calls for structured approaches that guide farmers, stakeholders, advisors, researchers, consumers and policymakers toward systemic solutions that address these overlapping challenges.
Various initiatives incite stakeholders and policy makers to innovate and develop multi-scale and multi-domain adaptation strategies for the agri-food systems. This implies to improve farmland environmental performance using sustainable practices, to reduce their CO2 emissions, and to protect the means of subsistence of farm households as well as natural resources, in particular water and soil, from the effects of climate change.
This symposium aims to revisit progress and debates in co-designing and promoting sustainable Agri-Food systems to face crises and support multiscale decisions. There are many trade-offs to document but also many synergies to analyse when looking at transition pathways and impacts.
Key dates
15/02/2026 Authors are informed on short paper acceptance
15/03/2026 Early bird registration deadline
30/04/2026 Registration deadline (also for field visits registration)

12th SCAR Open Science Conference & Meetings

The 12th SCAR Open Science Conference will be held in Oslo, Norway, from 10-14 August 2026, hosted by the Norwegian Polar Institute. The conference will feature an interdisciplinary programme that includes plenary lectures, parallel sessions, mini-symposia, workshops, panel discussions, posters, and social activities.

Date: August 10th –14th, 2026
Location: Oslo, Norway
e-mail: osc@scar.org
Read more: OSC 2026 – Expression of interest

International Symposium on Earthworm Ecology (ISEE13)
13th edition
Date: August 23rd-28th, 2026
Location: Wageningen, the Netherlands

This year’s theme, “From the lab to the field, from the field to the lab”, reflects the commitment to bridging the gap between experimental and real-world studies, both of which are essential to the advancement of earthworm research. ISEE13 will offer a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, with a strong focus on early-career researchers who are at the forefront of addressing global challenges impacting or affected by earthworms.

Important deadline:
Opening registration: December 1, 2025
Deadline abstract submission: January 4, 2026
Decision on abstract acceptance: March 4, 2026
Deadline for early bird registration: April 15, 2026
Deadline for registration: June 17, 2026

10th International Nitrogen Conference (N2026)
Sustainable Nitrogen Management for Future Generations

Date: November 2nd-6th, 2026
Location: Wageningen, the Netherlands
The 10th International Nitrogen Conference (N2026) aims to foster global collaboration under the theme “Sustainable Nitrogen Management for Future Generations.” While coordination between science and policy is essential, effectively addressing the nitrogen challenge requires the active engagement of all stakeholders, including governments, researchers, educators, industry, civil society, and the public.
We warmly welcome participants from around the world –across disciplines, sectors, and regions –who share a commitment to building a sustainable future. This conference will serve as an inclusive platform for sharing knowledge, aligning actions, and co-creating the Kyoto Declaration, a collective roadmap toward sustainable nitrogen management.
Read more: https://www.initrogen.org/events/n2026—kyoto—2—6-november-2026

Opportunities

6th Course on Statistical Methodology for Agricultural Sciences «Dario Sacco» – Italian Society of Agronomy LINEAR AND GENERALIZED LINEAR MODELS

Date: January 26th – 30th, 2026
Location: Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali of the Università degli Studi di Milano (Aula Gamma Lab.) via Celoria 18, Milan, Italy

The course is organized by the Italian Society of Agronomy (SIA). The course will include both practical and theoretical lessons every day from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM.
The course includes both theoretical and practical components, with various applications in the agronomic sector. The software used will be R, available at https ://cran.r-project.org/ for all operating systems. Participants are expected to have R installed on their computers, along with the packages that will be specified after registration. As prerequisites, participants should have basic knowledge of R and statistics (fundamental elements of descriptive and inferential statistics).
Read more: https://siagr.it/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/SIA_flyer_statistica_milano-1_ok_ok.pdf

Agricultural Chemistry Winter School “Soil-Plant-Microbiome functionality and adaptation to anthropogenic stress and climate change”- ACWS2026 –

Date: February 2nd –5th, 2026
Location: DAMSlab Auditorium, Piazzetta Pasolini 5b, Bologna, Italy

The Winter School, organized by the Italian Society of Agricultural Chemistry (SICA) and the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences at Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, is offered to doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, and early-stage researchers.

The interconnected challenges of climate change, anthropogenic activities, and the need to sustain a growing global population are increasingly compelling the need for a comprehensive approach to the soil-plant-microbiome system, necessitating consideration from both agronomic and environmental standpoints. Notably, extreme rainfall events, which are characterized by the occurrence of landslides and flooding, are becoming increasingly prevalent. These events are interspersed with prolonged drought periods, which complicate and economically burden the process of harvesting crops. Consequently, it is imperative to prioritize the enhancement of soil resilience and resistance and the protection of the ecological value of the soil-plant system.
In this regard, the field of agricultural chemistry plays a pivotal role by facilitating the identification of management strategies for the soil-plant-microbiome system.
These strategies are to be aligned with prevailing policies that are oriented towards environmental sustainability and the promotion of a circular economy. The utilization of organic-based fertilizers, biostimulants, nanofertilizers, growth-promoting microorganisms, and biodegradable bioplastic as alternatives to conventional plastics constitutes a series of winning strategies that have the potential to maintain or enhance soil fertility and quality, as well as promote plant growth and enhance their nutritional value.

Main information:
Submission deadline: 12 December 2025 (23:59 CET)
Participation Fee: 80€
The Winter School is limited to 50 participants: preferences will be given to doctoral students conducting research related to the theme of the school.

Application requirements
• Abstract (Word), prepared with the downloadable Abstract Template.
➝ File name: SURNAME_ACWS2026
• Application Form, fully completed.
• Doctoral students only: a supervisor’s statement confirming doctoral status.

School Organizer: martina.mazzon2@unibo.it
School Administration: valeria.taraborell3@unibo.it

New Books

Enhancing resilience and productivity of drought-prone cropping systems through conservation agricultural practices.

By M. D. A. M. Perera, W. R. A. T. P. Wijesundara, D. M. S. B. Dissanayaka, S. H. N. P. De Silva. – Plant Soil (November 2025), Springer.
Agricultural intensification, driven by the need to meet rising food demand, has often relied on conventional practices such as intensive tillage, monocropping, and residue removal. These practices have led to significant negative impacts, including reduced soil fertility, loss of biodiversity, soil degradation, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. Achieving sustainable food production for a growing global population requires innovative strategies that enhance productivity while minimizing environmental harm. Conservation agriculture (CA) has emerged as a promising solution to address these challenges. It also improves the resilience of cropping systems, particularly under moisture-limited conditions. This review synthesizes recent advances in CA that have been shown to enhance soil structure, increase organic carbon content, improve water retention, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support biodiversity in agroecosystems.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11104-025-08038-6

Promoting plant yield and quality improvement in saline alkali land by using biomass organic fertilizer and reducing chemical fertilizer measures.

By Zhao, J., Zhang, Q. – BMC Plant Biol 25, 1525 (2025).

The agricultural development of saline alkali land has always been an important direction for improving land use efficiency and food production. The study aims to explore the effects of biomass organic fertilizer and reducing the use of chemical fertilizers on watermelons in saline alkali land, providing a scientific basis for the sustainable development of saline alkali agriculture.
The study selects a mixed application of biomass organic fertilizer and chemical fertilizer with different proportions, and compares the growth, yield, and quality of watermelon in saline alkali soil.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12870-025-07586-4

Soil Microbiome for Sustainable Agriculture

By Govind Kumar Kanuriya, Subhash Chand, Aziz Mujtaba Aezum, Muzaffar Ahmad Malik, Kawaljeet Kaur – Ed. Satish Serial Publishing House

As global food demand climbs amid climate challenges and ecosystem stress, the solution may lie unseen—within the living fabric of soil. This essential volume exposes how leveraging microbial communities—bacteria, fungi, archaea and their allies—can revolutionize farming, heal soils, and support a resilient food system. Why Microbes Matter? Natural nutrient cycling: Soil microbes break down organic matter, converting it into plant-available nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This cuts reliance on synthetic fertilizers. Disease suppression & plant health: Beneficial microbes outcompete harmful pathogens and act as natural biocontrol agents, boosting plant immunity and reducing pesticide use. Soil structure & water resilience: Microbial activity binds soil particles into aggregates, enhancing aeration, water retention, and erosion control—critical in drought-prone regions. Stress tolerance: Endophytes like Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas help plants withstand drought, salinity, and heat—reinforcing crop resilience as climate extremes intensify Carbon sequestration & climate mitigation: Soil microbes participate in carbon fixation and storage, supporting eco-friendly farming while resisting greenhouse gas emissions. Innovations & Practices Biofertilizers and inoculants: Targeted microbial products, such as rhizobia, mycorrhizae, Trichoderma, and Bacillus—boost yields (10–40%), increase nutrient efficiency, suppress diseases, and reduce dependency on chemicals Microbiome-optimized crops: Cutting-edge research, like identifying mutations that enhance root–microbe partnerships in wheat, promises new non-GM crops designed for nutrient efficiency. Regenerative farming: Practices like cover cropping, crop rotation, reduced tillage, intercropping, and organic amendments foster diverse microbial communities and healthier soils. Start-ups & global impact: Companies like Loam Bio are developing fungal inoculants that double soil carbon storage and water retention, enabling farmers to tap into carbon credit markets and drive sustainable change.

ISBN: 978935387520

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