SoilTribes 4th Meet‑Up: Citizen Science for Soil Health

On 20 November 2025, SoilTribes hosted its 4th Meet‑Up under the theme Citizen Science for Soil Health. The online event, organized by INOVA+, brought together 40 participants from diverse backgrounds, including researchers, educators, municipalities, NGOs, and grassroots initiatives. The session created a space for dialogue on how citizen science can strengthen soil stewardship and contribute to sustainable management practices.

Throughout the discussion, participants explored real‑world examples from Living Labs and Lighthouses, which demonstrated how communities can be actively engaged in soil monitoring and how digital tools can support participatory approaches. These case studies illustrated the potential of citizen science to connect people with the science of soil, while also offering practical insights into how local action can inform broader policy frameworks.

The conversation emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between science and society, showing how citizen‑led initiatives can inspire collaboration across sectors and foster greater soil literacy. By highlighting the role of communities in observing and caring for soils, the Meet‑Up reinforced the idea that sustainable soil management is not only a scientific challenge but also a collective responsibility.