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22nd World Congress of soil science
The World Congress of Soil Science 2022 (WCSS 22) 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 next Congress is being 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.
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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 Our Living Soil.
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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.
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#WCSS22 in the Media
Who attended?
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a special address
In an address recorded specially for the World Congress of Soil Science 2022, screened at the Closing Ceremony, in his former role as Prince of Wales, His Royal Highness King Charles III delivered a closing speech to delegates at the World Congress of Soil Science 2022 expounded on the importance of healthy soil and the role of science in understanding its function and in supporting industry and policy towards effective management practices.
‘Soil is absolutely critical for delivering the ecosystem services on which we all rely‘ and the rather grim determination ‘we have to be proactive… the alternative is too grim to contemplate‘, both stated by HRH Prince Charles in his address, neatly highlighted themes running throughout the scientific, cultural, and policy programming of the WCSS22 and proved a fitting close to a historic Congress.
