Theme

In the next couple of decades, researches in agronomy and soil science must develop resilient agricultural practices to accommodate the forthcoming environmental and climatic changes and threats to food security and sovereignty. All these subjects are connected to soil health and quality. The role of soils in the present of our society and for future generations becomes increasingly complex and diverse, and soil scientists are in a unique position to help solving the problems that originate from the growing population. In the next decades, soil science will remain at the center of discussion for food production and environmental conservation, but it will be equally essential and strategic for issues such as water quality, protection of biodiversity, reduction of poverty, production of renewable energy and sustainable agriculture intensification.

The Congress theme “Soil Science: Beyond food and fuel” is an invitation to answer questions like: How to feed a hungry planet? How to fuel an energy-hungry planet? How to quench a thirsty planet? How to clean up our polluted planet? How to reach a balance between protection of biodiversity and sustainable land management for agriculture production? These, among many other questions, are subjects related to the multiple functions of soil.