AF4EU was pleased to participate in “Suelos Vivos: European Innovation to Transform Galicia”. This regional event held in honour of the World Soil Day, was successfully organized by FEUGA on December 5th in Santiago de Compostela, Galicia. With over 50 participants the event aimed at raising awareness about the importance of soil quality preservation and showcasing the latest innovative practices, with a special focus on their application in Galicia.
During the event, experts from Galicia’s three public universities presented their involvement in key European projects: AGROSUS, SoildiverAgro, MRV4SOC, FIREPOCTEP+, SUS-SOIL, AF4EU, DRYAD, MAR2PROTECT and ALERT-PFAS. Innovative strategies and solutions to challenges such as carbon agriculture, biodiversity measurement, and the identification of contamination sources, with concrete results applicable to the local context, were discussed in two different panel discussions.
Key Themes Discussed
AF4EU was pleased to participate in one of the event’s panel discussions, where researchers from various projects gathered to share their expertise in soil sustainability. As a speaker at the “Nutrient management and carbon farming: innovations in fertiliser and organic waste utilisation”, Nuria Ferreiro, represented AF4EU by introducing the project, RAINs and our latest innovations and advancements on agroforestry in the Galician region. She also actively engaged in the following discussion, adding valuable insights to the ongoing dialogue on sustainable soil management.
During these pannels, the speakers covered topics such as the impact of wildfires on soil health, the importance of sustainable agricultural practices to promote biodiversity, and the need for resilient crops in the face of climate change. Technological solutions like artificial intelligence were also explored to address future challenges, alongside the crucial role of legislation and collaboration between administrations to implement these solutions.
Networking and Collaboration at the Soil Hub Fair
The day concluded with the Soil Hub Fair, an interactive initiative where participants had the opportunity to discover success stories, explore project ideas, and establish key connections in the sustainable soil management field. AF4EU was thrilled to participate, contributing with its own stand and exchanging knowledge in this vital area.
Posters, stands, flash presentations, and workshops were just some of the activities that made the fair a highlight of the event, fostering the exchange of ideas and the creation of new collaborations.
On this World Soil Day, we reaffirm our commitment to raise awareness and promote solutions for healthy and resilient soils. Take a look at the photos taken during the event!
