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In the framework of the International Year of Soil, 2015, the the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) has developed a set of 12 videos, each centered around a monthly soil related theme. The goal of these videos is to raise:

  • Public awareness of the value of soils and soil science
  • Visibility of soil scientists in their communities
  • Highlight soils.org as the premiere place to find soils information

The first video, about Soils sustaing life on our planet, can be viewed below, and higlights Soil as the foundation of life on earth and shows the EcoSystem Services (ESS) soils provide.

EcoSystem Services are also an important aspect of the RECARE project. More about the relation between ESS and the RECARE project can be found on the workshop page about the EcoSystem Services Workshop given in the framework of the RECARE project earlier in 2014.

The UNCCD 3rd scientific conference will be held in Cancún, Mexico from 9 to 12 March 2015 in the framework of the 4th special session of the Committee on Science and Technology.

The conference is convened under the theme "Combating desertification/ land degradation and drought (DLDD) for poverty reduction and sustainable development – the contribution of science, technology, traditional knowledge and practices".


Global changes are expected to accentuate DLDD, and the vulnerability of populations, particularly those living in drylands. The conference will therefore focus on how to anticipate the impact of climate change and land degradation, in order to be able to promote adaptive and sustainable land management approaches to reduce poverty and environmental degradation while achieving sustainable development.

Parties, observers and relevant organizations are encouraged to contribute to the success of the meeting and showcase their work by:
• Submitting a proposal for a side event
• Applying for a booth

More information, application forms and guidelines on:

http://www.unccd.int/en/about-the-convention/the-bodies/The-CST/Pages/CST-S4.aspx

Requests must be sent to the UNCCD Secretariat by January 9th, 2015.

Recent heavy rainfall has caused a 'once-in-200-year' -flooding in Western Norway. Large amounts of rain have fallen in the province of Sogn og Fjørdane (Western Norway), various meteorological stations have measured between 84 and 129 mm of rainfall within 24 hours. A number of houses were lost and 200 people were evacuated. The flood has led to severe stream bank erosion and soil (quality) losses on agricultural fields.

Norway is known for the Floods and Landslide -soil threat and is taking part in the RECARE project with their Case Study site located in the Vansjø-Hobøl Catchment.

More information through the following links:

www.nrk.no (text, video), Norwaypost.no (online newspaper), NBC-News (online Newspaper)