Summary
This forum paper positions soil science as integral to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals by demonstrating explicit connections between soil functions, ecosystem services, and SDG targets. The authors identify critical gaps in how soil scientists communicate with policymakers and other disciplines, and propose six strategic recommendations: embracing SDG framing, demonstrating soil science's value through transdisciplinary research, leading ecosystem system analysis, elevating soil organic matter awareness, improving knowledge transfer, and strengthening policy communication through evidence-based language.
UK applicability
The recommendations for integrating soil science into policy frameworks and educational programmes are directly applicable to UK practice and governance. The emphasis on knowledge brokerage and communication with the policy arena aligns with UK environmental policy mechanisms such as the Environment Act 2021 and soil health initiatives.
Key measures
Linkages between soil functions, ecosystem services, and SDG targets; recommendations for soil science community engagement with policy and interdisciplinary research
Outcomes reported
The paper articulates how soil science and soil functions underpin multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals and identifies gaps between soil science research and policy implementation.
Topic tags
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