Spreading Open and Inclusive Literacy and Soil Culture through Artistic Practices and Education

“Once upon a time, in a world where soil degradation became a priority concern, where hundreds of soil scientists and professionals rang the alarm bell, but where major gaps in societal awareness and education on the importance of soils for humans and the ecosystems 100 persisted and slowed down the change towards sustainable soil governance, a rich and expansive story started to unfold. It was a tale of transformation, and a collaborative journey towards increased soil literacy. The SOILSCAPE story began with a group of 19 pioneers, analogous to musicians, having the same objective to help boost soil awareness and care by conducting a dynamic and territorial network of what we call Orchestras. All of these Orchestras are sounding of the fundamental linkage between soils and human population, soil health and human health, resulting in hundreds of inspiring arts-based initiatives (in the broadest sense) across Europe and beyond. The resulting Symphony overcame the challenges of changing society's perceptions and engaged artists, citizens, soil professionals and institutions on soils, through innovative communication campaigns, participatory art-science, and broader cultural initiatives together with creative science-based soil activities.” SOILSCAPE is a 48-month project gathering 19 partners from 8 Members states, Switzerland, and Kenya. Inter-disciplinary and trans-disciplinary activities will be conducted through the wide diversity of expertise required to increase soil literacy, initiate an international network of local actors, and engage the society in the protection and restoration of soils through creative ways. The project involves 2 of the EU largest and liveliest Soil Sciences Societies, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the World Agroforestry, 3 CCIs, 1 cluster of CCIs and 1 of professionals, 7 research institutes, 1 EU Rural Network, and 1 non profit organization. Project starting date: 1 June 2024 Project duration: 48 months

Consortium leader: French Soil Science Society
Topic: HORIZON-MISS-2023-SOIL-01-07
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