Proceedings of the 6th International Congress of the European Society for Soil Conservation: Innovative Strategies and Policies for Soil Conservation
The proceedings document the 6th International Congress of the European Society for Soil Conservation (ESSC), held in Thessaloniki, Greece, from May 9-14, 2011. The congress aimed to address innovative strategies and policies for soil conservation, gathering scientists, educators, NGOs, and policymakers from over 50 countries. The preface highlights the success of previous congresses and emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between land conservation and policy impacts.
The congress featured a comprehensive scientific program, including oral presentations and poster sessions across various themes such as soil protection policies, the impact of forest fires, sustainable management of wetlands and drylands, and the conservation of soil biodiversity. Keynote lectures addressed critical issues like soil erosion control, the effectiveness of agricultural practices, and the role of soil organic carbon in ecosystem health.
The document outlines the contributions of various researchers, detailing studies on soil erosion, the effectiveness of conservation practices, and the implications of climate change on soil management. It also discusses the importance of integrating scientific research with practical applications to enhance soil conservation efforts. The proceedings conclude with a call for continued collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and land users to develop effective strategies for soil conservation and sustainable land management.
The proceedings are significant for several reasons. They provide a platform for sharing cutting-edge research and practical solutions to pressing soil conservation issues, which are critical in the context of global environmental challenges such as climate change and land degradation. The congress fosters collaboration among diverse stakeholders, promoting the exchange of knowledge and best practices. The findings and discussions presented in the proceedings contribute to ongoing debates about sustainable agriculture, land use policies, and the need for integrated approaches to soil management. For researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, the document serves as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of soil conservation and the socio-economic factors influencing land management decisions.
