International Union of Soil Sciences
Overview
The International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) is an international non-governmental organization dedicated to the study and promotion of soil science. The IUSS was established in 1924 and is currently headquartered in Vienna, Austria. The organization's main aim is to foster the study of soil in all its aspects and to promote the dissemination of knowledge about soil and its applications. The IUSS is recognized by the International Council for Science (ICSU) as the global union for soil science.
History
The IUSS was initially established as the International Society of Soil Science (ISSS) during the International Geological Congress held in Belgium in 1924. The organization was later renamed to the International Union of Soil Sciences in 1956. The IUSS has since played a significant role in the development and promotion of soil science on a global scale.
Structure and Organization
The IUSS is composed of four divisions, each focusing on a specific area of soil science. These divisions are: Division 1 - Soil in Space and Time, Division 2 - Soil Properties and Processes, Division 3 - Soil Use and Management, and Division 4 - The Role of Soil in Sustaining Society and the Environment. Each division is further divided into several commissions and working groups, which focus on more specific aspects of soil science.
Activities
The IUSS organizes and sponsors numerous conferences, workshops, and symposia on various aspects of soil science. The most notable of these is the World Congress of Soil Science, which is held every four years. The IUSS also publishes the IUSS Bulletin, a quarterly newsletter, and the IUSS Alerts, a monthly electronic publication.
Impact and Contributions
The IUSS has made significant contributions to the field of soil science. Through its activities, the organization has facilitated the exchange of knowledge and information among soil scientists worldwide. The IUSS has also played a crucial role in promoting the importance of soil in various aspects of life, including agriculture, environmental management, and climate change mitigation.
See Also
