Rio de Janairo, 2018

The Rio congress marked a broadening of soil science beyond its traditional agricultural focus, positioning soils within the wider context of global sustainability challenges. With the theme “Beyond food and fuel,” the community explored how soils contribute to water security, energy systems, pollution control, and ecosystem functioning. Discussions frequently centered on the soil–water–energy nexus and the importance of soil organic carbon in climate regulation. There was a strong emphasis on global initiatives such as soil data harmonization and international monitoring systems, reflecting a growing need for coordinated global action. Soil pollution and remediation emerged as key concerns, alongside strategies for climate adaptation and resilient agriculture. The congress also reinforced links between soil management and poverty reduction, particularly in developing regions. In conclusion, the community recognized soils as a multifunctional resource essential to addressing interconnected global challenges and called for stronger international collaboration and policy frameworks.