The Global Soil Partnership at the Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has declared 2015 the International Year of Soils. In celebration, the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) is coordinating a series of activities throughout 2015 to educate the public about the importance of this precious natural resource.
SSSA has organized a series of 12 monthly messages throughout the year and is developing a series of 12, 2-minute educational videos in collaboration with Jim Toomey, who authors the environmental cartoon, Sherman’s Lagoon. SSSA members also have created educational materials for K-12 teachers. Additionally, groups can request an SSSA member to speak at their event by filling out an Ask a Scientist form.
Here are SSSA’s 12 themes to celebrate the International Year of Soils:
January – Soils sustain life
February – Soils support urban life
March – Soils support agriculture
April – Soils clean and capture water
May – Soils support buildings/infrastructure
June – Soils support recreation
July – Soils are living
August – Soils support health
September – Soils protect the natural environment
October – Soils and products we use
November – Soil and climate
December – Soils, culture, and people