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Soil Matters: Daily Summaries Delivered
by The British Society of Soil Science
The British Society of Soil Science presents Soil Matters, a podcast dedicated to bridging the gap between cutting-edge scientific research and real-world application. Each episode features leading experts, researchers, and practitioners discussing the latest findings, innovations, and challenges in soil science. From exploring soil's role in climate change mitigation, food security, sustainable agriculture, and biodiversity, Soil Matters engages listeners with accessible, thought-provoking content that highlights the importance of soil in shaping our planet's future. Whether you're a researcher, policymaker, or simply curious about the ground beneath your feet, this podcast offers something for everyone passionate about soil science.
Latest Episodes
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- 2 weeks ago54 min
Reimagining Soil: Earth Rover Innovation and Global Action at COP17
In this episode, host, Paul Lincoln is joined by Professor Simon Jeffery and environmental writer George Monbiot to unpack the groundbreaking Earth Rover Program—a pioneering initiative using high‑frequency seismology and AI to “see” into the soil without disturbing it. By replacing traditional, destructive sampling methods with non‑invasive techniques, the programme aims to make high‑quality soil data accessible to farmers, scientists, and citizens alike. With ambitions to scale from field‑level analysis to global mapping—and even smartphone‑based tools—this work could revolutionise how we monitor soil health, carbon storage, water movement, and biodiversity. The conversation explores the scientific challenges of studying soil, the limitations of current methods, and how interdisciplinary innovation—from geophysics to ecology—could unlock a deeper understanding of the living systems beneath our feet. It also highlights the growing role of citizen science, open data, and collaboration in shaping the future of soil science. In the second half, the focus shifts from innovation to international policy, with Andrew Morris and Sopiko Babalashvili discussing the significance of COP17 under the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). With land degradation and desertification accelerating globally—including in Europe—the episode outlines why soil health is now central to tackling climate change, food security, and biodiversity loss. Listeners will gain insight into how science informs policymaking at COP, the role of civil society and youth voices, and why soil scientists are critical to shaping sustainable land management solutions worldwide. This episode sets the stage for COP17, highlighting both the urgency of the challenges ahead and the innovative solutions emerging from science and society. For more information, visit: soils.org.uk/soilmatters
- Jun 17, 202644 min
Frontline Earth: Why Soil Is a National Security Issue
Professor Jack Hannam, former President of the British Society of Soil Science (2023–2024) and now Head of the Agriculture, Health and Environment Department at the Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, joins the conversation with deep expertise in soil systems and global environmental policy. Having represented the sector at international forums including COP29 and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, and having advised both UK Parliament and the Canadian Senate, Jack brings a global scientific perspective on soil health, food production, and ecosystem resilience. She is joined by Lieutenant General Richard Nugee, a former senior British Army officer and Chief of Defence People, who led the UK Ministry of Defence’s landmark review on climate change and sustainability. Now an internationally recognised advisor on the intersection of climate and security, Richard provides a defence and strategic lens on how environmental degradation is reshaping global stability. Together, they unpack the implications of the UK Government’s Nature Security Assessment, which warns that biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse could trigger food shortages, supply chain disruption, migration pressures and geopolitical instability. The discussion explores why climate and nature risks are still underrepresented in national security planning, and how concepts such as food, water and energy security are becoming central to resilience. Drawing on history—from the WWII “Dig for Victory” campaign to today’s reliance on synthetic fertilisers—the episode examines how society has become disconnected from the land, and what that means for future food systems. Jack highlights the science behind soil degradation, nutrient loss and sustainable alternatives, while Richard emphasises the need to redefine security beyond military capability to include the resilience of the nation itself. The conversation ultimately issues a clear call to action: soil is not just an environmental concern, but a strategic asset. For scientists, policymakers and citizens alike, understanding and restoring soil health is essential to safeguarding food systems, ecosystems and the stability of nations in an increasingly uncertain world. For more information, visit: soils.org.uk/soilmatters
- Apr 24, 20261h 35m
From Aberdeen to Nanjing: The Future of Soil Science with President Prof. Paul Hallett & Guests
Part 1 – Professor Paul Hallett: Leading the Society & Evolving the Discipline The episode opens with an in‑depth interview with Professor Paul Hallett, President of the British Society of Soil Science and Professor of Soil Physics at the University of Aberdeen. Paul reflects on his unexpected route into soil science, shaped by environmental awareness, academic mentors, and early hands‑on fieldwork. He discusses: his career in soil physics and biophysics, including research on root–soil interactions, slope stabilisation, soil degradation, and international development; the balance between research, teaching, and supervising more than 120 PhD students; highlights from his presidency so far — record membership growth, winning the EuroSoil 2028 bid for Edinburgh, strengthening member engagement, and expanding policy and education initiatives; major challenges facing soil science, including declining university funding, low student numbers, and rising industry demand; his hopes for the remainder of his presidency, including the forthcoming State of Soil Science Report, deeper education collaboration, and greater international reach; and his extensive research links in Ethiopia and China, including work on soil degradation, land regeneration, and major bilateral Critical Zone Observatory collaborations. Paul also shares his thoughts on how soil science teaching must evolve over the next decade to remain relevant, inclusive, and aligned with real‑world needs. Part 2 – Adam Burton: A Student’s Perspective from Zambia to Aberdeen Next, Paul Lincoln welcomes Adam Burton, a third‑year Plant and Soil Science student at the University of Aberdeen and one of Paul Hallett’s undergraduates. Adam discusses: growing up on his family’s third‑generation farm in Zambia and witnessing the limitations of synthetic, input‑heavy farming; how these experiences inspired him to pursue soil science in the UK; how his degree has transformed his understanding of soil processes, sustainability, and plant‑soil interactions; his evolving career interests — from regenerative agronomy to consultancy, carbon sequestration, and global food systems; the changing public and agricultural appreciation of soil health, particularly across Africa, Europe, and the UK; and what better soil communication could mean for the next generation of farmers, scientists, and decision‑makers. His reflections offer an inspiring student‑level view of the challenges and opportunities ahead for soil science. Part 3 – Professor Yong‑guan Zhu: Soil Science in China & Global Collaboration The third guest is Professor Yong‑guan Zhu, Director General of the Institute of Urban Environment at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and one of China’s most influential soil scientists. Professor Zhu discusses: the transformation of soil science in China over the past 30 years, including rapid internationalisation and major national investment; the central role of soil science in China’s food security, environmental quality, and sustainable development goals; career pathways for soil scientists within and beyond academia in China; his leadership in the China‑UK Critical Zone Observatory programme, bringing together atmospheric, hydrological, ecological, and soil systems research; the importance of peri‑urban soil systems in recycling nutrients, protecting biodiversity, and supporting growing cities; and China’s pioneering work on nutrient recycling, especially phosphorus. He also previews the World Congress of Soil Science in Nanjing, where he will deliver a keynote lecture, and reflects on the value of long‑term scientific friendships and collaborations. Part 4 – Professor Xin Song: Emerging Contaminants & the World Congress of Soil Science The episode closes with Professor Xin Song from the Institute of Soil Science, Nanjing — a key organiser of the 2026 World Congress and an expert on soil contaminants, including PFAS (“forever chemicals”). Xin explains: the global significance of this year’s Congress and its theme: “Soils and a Shared Future for Humanity”; the major themes for 2026: soil health, climate adaptation, soil carbon, digital soil science, biodiversity, remediation, and sustainable land management; why international collaboration is vital for understanding and regulating PFAS, microplastics, a
- Feb 13, 202659 min
Old Knowledge – Indigenous Wisdom for Sustainable Land Management Part 2
Guests Marioldy Sanchez Santivanez, Kleily Vargas and Jhon Guimaraes offer a compelling look into the deep-rooted relationship between indigenous communities and the land—revealing how traditional knowledge, community governance, and a commitment to ecological balance have sustained landscapes for generations.Listeners will discover how indigenous farming practices—guided by ancestral understanding of seasons, biodiversity, and soil life—offer viable, chemical-free alternatives for modern agriculture. Juan highlights the importance of keeping forests as forests, managing land collectively, and honouring the natural rhythms of the environment.This episode shines a light on the transformative potential of indigenous agriculture as both a model and a movement for global sustainability. With collaboration between communities and professionals growing, and with renewed recognition of indigenous contributions, the future of sustainable land stewardship looks brighter than ever. For more information, visit: soils.org.uk/soilmatters
- Dec 11, 20251h 22m
Old Knowledge – Indigenous Wisdom for Sustainable Land Management
In this special two part edition of Soil Matters, host Paul Lincoln explores how centuries of Indigenous knowledge are shaping modern approaches to soil health and sustainable land management across Africa.In part 1, joined by three inspiring guests—Divine Ntiokam (Global Climate Smart Agriculture Youth Network), Jemimah Kutata (Maasai disability rights advocate and community leader), and Dr Awdenegest Moges (Hawassa University, Ethiopia)—the conversation spans youth-led climate-smart agriculture, grassroots empowerment, and community driven soil restoration.Together, they reveal how traditional practices complement modern soil science, strengthen resilience against desertification and drought, and connect local stewardship to global agendas on food security and climate justice. From Kenya’s Indigenous governance of land resources to Ethiopia’s Rift Valley restoration projects, this episode highlights the vital role of indigenous communities in safeguarding the future of our soils.Subscribe now to hear how “old knowledge” offers fresh solutions for today’s soil challenges and why listening to Indigenous voices is key to building climate resilience worldwide. For more information, visit: soils.org.uk/soilmatters
- Sep 3, 202555 min
From Soil to Supper: How Regenerative Farming is Transforming How We Eat
What does it really mean to farm with nature, not against it? In this episode of Soil Matters, we dive deep into regenerative agriculture — exploring its principles, challenges, and potential to reshape the future of farming.Host, Paul Lincoln, is joined by broadcaster and BSSS Patron Kate Humble, farmer, Wildfarmed co-founder and musician Andy Cato, and soil scientist and BSSS President-Elect Dr. Lizzie Sagoo. Together, they share personal journeys from smallholdings to large-scale projects, reflect on what it takes to bring degraded soils back to life, and unpack the realities behind the “regen ag” movement.From cover crops and companion planting to biodiversity and building resilient food systems, this conversation bridges science, practice, and passion. Whether you’re a farmer, grower, researcher, or simply someone who cares about what’s on your plate, this episode offers fresh insight into how soil health underpins a sustainable future. For more information, visit: soils.org.uk/soilmatters
- Aug 5, 202549 min
Time, Soil, and Transformation: The Secrets Beneath Colt Park Meadows
In this special on-location episode of Soil Matters, host Paul Lincoln and the British Society of Soil Science with the Ecological Continuity Trust (ECT) visits Colt Park Meadows an experiment supported by ECT, situated within the heart of the Yorkshire Dales to explore one of the UK’s longest-running ecological experiments. Joined by Professor Richard Bardgett (Lancaster University) and Ben Sykes (ECT), the episode delves into the vital role of funding for long-term ecological field experiments in understanding soil health, biodiversity, and resilience to climate extremes. Together, they unpack over three decades of data, from red clover's surprising impact on carbon sequestration to the value of "do nothing" control plots. The conversation highlights how slow, subtle changes in soil and vegetation can carry powerful lessons for land managers, policymakers, and scientists alike.Discover why long-term perspective matters, how research informs real-world practice, and how a humble meadow is helping shape the future of sustainable land use. For more information, visit: soils.org.uk/soilmatters
- Jun 23, 202551 min
Redefining Soil Health: Systems Thinking and the Future of Soil Science
Soil Matters host, Paul Lincoln, is joined by Professor Jim Harris, Dr. Daniel Evans from Cranfield University, and Dan Lambeth, Trustee of the British Society of Soil Science, to explore the evolving concept of soil health and its far-reaching implications for science, technology, communication, and practice. Marking the 75th anniversary of the European Journal of Soil Science and its special call for papers, the panel discusses the origins and challenges of defining soil health—a concept that has inspired policymakers and land managers but continues to spark debate among scientists.Jim Harris and Dan Evans reflect on their personal journeys in soil science and the discipline’s shift from viewing soil as a static material to understanding it as a dynamic, complex system. They highlight how the accessibility of the term “soil health” makes it a powerful tool for engagement, while also cautioning against oversimplification. The conversation underscores the need for dynamic, systems-based approaches to measurement that capture the true complexity, resilience, and emergent properties of healthy soils.Dan Lambeth offers his perspective on bridging soil science, policy, communication, and sustainable investment, drawing on his experience in finance and sustainability reporting. He discusses the increasing interest in soil health from the private sector, the importance of robust data for investment, and the need for a shared language among scientists, policymakers, and land managers. The episode also features Professor Jenni Dungait, Editor in Chief of the European Journal of Soil Science, who shares her vision for the journal’s future as it enters an exciting new chapter.Read more about Dan and Jim's research on soil health in 'A New Theory for Soil Health' from the European Journal of Soil Science.To learn more about the European Journal of Soil Science and how to submit a paper, click here For more information, visit: soils.org.uk/soilmatters
About Soil Matters
The British Society of Soil Science presents Soil Matters, a podcast dedicated to bridging the gap between cutting-edge scientific research and real-world application. Each episode features leading experts, researchers, and practitioners discussing the latest findings, innovations, and challenges in soil science. From exploring soil's role in climate change mitigation, food security, sustainable agriculture, and biodiversity, Soil Matters engages listeners with accessible, thought-provoking content that highlights the importance of soil in shaping our planet's future. Whether you're a researcher, policymaker, or simply curious about the ground beneath your feet, this podcast offers something for everyone passionate about soil science.
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