Soilathon - Improving Soil Literacy in Society

How can we make soil science more meaningful, accessible and engaging for society?

The Soilathon invites participants to step beyond traditional approaches to soil communication and explore new ways of connecting soil science with people, communities and everyday life.

This is a hands-on, collaborative experience designed for participants from different backgrounds to exchange perspectives, explore real-world challenges and co-create practical ideas that can help strengthen soil literacy in society.

No previous experience in soil science or innovation is required. What matters is your curiosity, your perspective and your willingness to work with others.

Participants will work in diverse, multidisciplinary teams and take part in a dynamic process combining inspiration, collaboration, creative thinking and practical problem-solving.

You will have the opportunity to:

• Explore why understanding soil matters for society and our future;
• Look at soil literacy from different perspectives and challenge existing assumptions;
• Exchange ideas with people from different fields, backgrounds and experiences;
• Work collaboratively on a real-world challenge;
• Develop and shape creative, tangible ideas that can bring soil knowledge closer to citizens;
• Share your team's ideas with the wider group.

The session is designed to be interactive and practical, so come ready to contribute, experiment, think differently and build on other people's ideas.

The Soilathon is open to participants interested in soil, science communication, education, citizen engagement, sustainability, creativity and innovation.

We particularly welcome a diversity of perspectives, including researchers, educators, communicators, practitioners, artists, students, policymakers and other professionals interested in strengthening the relationship between science and society. No specific technical background is required.

Participation is free but limited to 50 participants.

Registration is required and places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Come with your curiosity. Leave with new perspectives, new connections and ideas for making soil matter to more people.