The European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) has published a new report presenting a methodology to characterize land degradation and desertification in the European Union, marking an important step toward more harmonized monitoring of soil and land health. Released on 7 July 2026, the report responds to recommendations from the European Court of Auditors and supports the implementation of the EU's broader environmental and soil protection objectives.
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Held every four years under the auspices of the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS), the World Congress of Soil Science is the most influential international forum in the field. The 2026 edition marks a historic milestone, as China hosted the Congress for the first time after successfully securing the bid during the 21st WCSS in Brazil. More than 120 scientific sessions explored a wide range of topics covering soil science, sustainable land management, agricultural productivity, biodiversity, climate resilience, and environmental protection.
The Congress comes at a time when the importance of healthy soils has never been greater. With the global population expected to exceed 9 billion by 2050, ensuring food security will depend on the ability to sustainably increase agricultural productivity while preserving the health and fertility of existing soils. Healthy soils are fundamental not only for food production, but also for water regulation, carbon storage, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience.
Beyond its scientific program, WCSS 2026 provided numerous opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange. The event featured poster exhibitions, a young researchers' forum and a soil judging contest designed to engage the next generation of soil scientists. Participants also had the opportunity to join technical field tours showcasing China's diverse soil types, landscapes, and agricultural systems, illustrating both the country's rich soil resources and the practical challenges of sustainable soil management.
As governments around the world continue to strengthen soil protection policies and develop monitoring frameworks, scientific collaboration remains essential. International events such as the World Congress of Soil Science provide an important platform for sharing research, identifying innovative solutions, and translating scientific knowledge into practical action. Advancing soil health will require cooperation across disciplines and borders, ensuring that healthy soils continue to support food security, environmental sustainability, and human well-being for generations to come.
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https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1131713