#wcss22
22nd World Congress of soil science
The World Congress of Soil Science is a leading international soil science conference, held every four years in different countries and attended by over 1,600 soil scientists from around the globe. The World Congress of Soil Science 2022 (WCSS22) was organised by the British Society of Soil Science on behalf of the International Union of Soil Sciences.
The Congress theme, ‘Soil Science – crossing boundaries, changing society’ focused on the link between soil and society, with sessions covering soil systems, soil processes, soil management and how we interact with and use soils around the world. Specialist workshops and discussion sessions took place across a wide range of soil disciplines. The core programme was supported by tours and a cultural and arts programme for delegates and the wider public to explore our diverse environment and culture. The World Congress of Soil Science 2022 annual report sets out the full scale of the event’s impact.
#wcss22
Where & When was it?
The Congress took place at the award winning and world-class Scottish Event Campus, a riverside venue minutes from central Glasgow in Scotland, UK. The Congress was held between 31 July and 5 August 2022, and was flanked by an exciting menu of soil science activities, such as the soil tours, soil judging programme, and outreach activities under the banner of arts programme page.
#wcss22
Who attended?
The congress was open to anyone who had an interest in the sustainable use of soils, particularly research scientists, regulators and NGOs. Over 1600 people attended the Congress in person, representing a diverse range of soil science practitioners. The specific policymakers’ programme, held on Tuesday 2 August 2022, was particularly well attended, with standing room only, and explored how scientific research can inform environmental policy.
In addition to delegates, the Congress was supported by various sponsors and exhibitors. We are very thankful for their help in making the Congress possible.
The Four pillars of the WCSS22
The World Congress of Soil Science 2022 was built on four central pillars that underpinned the initial event concept, bidding process, planning, and delivery. As an outcome from the WCSS22 BSSS President Bruce Lascelles wrote an open letter to soil science addressing how the Congress delivered in each quarter, and laying out a foundation for future progress to be made. That letter can be read here.
