Reviewing Progress and Planning Ahead 

A central part of the meeting focused on reviewing the first reporting period (M1–M18) and the overall project progress, now at month 25 of its 48-month duration. Partners discussed the deliverables completed so far, identified gaps and areas for improvement, and outlined priorities for the next phase of the project. 

Across several sessions and four parallel workshops, partners presented updates from the project’s work packages.

What is Soil? 

One of the most engaging moments of the assembly invited partners to reflect on a simple question: “What is soil?” 

Through an interactive exercise, consortium members shared their own perspectives. The responses revealed both the scientific complexity and the emotional connection people have with soil: 

“The earth beneath our feet.” 

“The living part of our Earth’s crust.” 

“A dynamic system where minerals, water, air and organisms interact.” 

“The foundation of life and death.” 

“Soil is the skin of Mother Earth.” 

Some participants approached the question scientifically, describing soil as the interface of the lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere, while others highlighted its cultural and emotional meaning as the place where life grows, cycles and regenerates. 

Soil Art Show 

During the assembly, partners also attended a thought-provoking art performance by Dutch art group Dette Glashouwer, exploring the intimate connection between soil and the human body. Through storytelling and visuals, the performance prompted viewers to reflect on key questions like: what is soil, what do we walk on, and what keeps us alive? By drawing parallels between the vast microbial life in healthy soil and the trillions of microbes living in the human gut, the piece invited the audience to reflect on how deeply interconnected our bodies are with the living world beneath our feet. Learn more about them. 

Workshops on Soil Education and Policy  

The second day also included thematic workshops addressing key topics such as soil education policy and the development of MOOCs, helping partners exchange ideas on how to bring soil literacy into classrooms and public discussions across Europe. 

Exploring Slovenia’s Karst Landscapes 

Beyond the presentations and workshops, the consortium also explored Slovenia’s remarkable landscapes. Hosts Katja Črnec and Borut Vrščaj organised a field trip combining geology, agriculture and soil science.

Partners visited the Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the Reka River disappears underground and continues flowing for nearly 40 kilometres beneath the Karst plateau, forming one of the largest underground river canyons in the world.

The group also visited Gramona Farm, where participants learned about olive groves, regenerative farming practices, and observed soil profiles to better understand how sustainable land management supports healthy soils. 

The day concluded with a tasting of local olive oil and wine, a reminder of the deep connection between soil, landscapes, and food systems. 

Looking Ahead 

As the project enters its third year, the consortium will continue implementing the Soil Literacy Assessment Framework, developing educational resources, creating immersive experiences, social media campaigns, series and webinars that bring soils closer to people across Europe. 

You can find all the photos from Slovenia in this Flickr album by REVOLVE.