Literacy boost through an Operational Educational Ecosystem of Societal actors on Soil health

LOESS - Literacy Boost through an Operational Educational Ecosystem of Societal Actors on Soil Health - is mapping, connecting, and engaging multiple actors in Communities of Practice to assess current soil-related knowledge across various educational levels. The project develops teaching programs and materials, including an Atlas of Soil Education.

LOESS explores the educational needs of school pupils (primary and secondary), students (tertiary level), young professionals, and the broader society across the European Union and Horizon Europe Associated Countries. It investigates why existing materials are underutilized and co-creates courses and modules for soil education, incorporating virtual reality and augmented reality applications. These resources cater to different educational stages and address global and local challenges, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

The project co-creates and tests pedagogical techniques to foster effective communication between educators and learners, integrating various knowledge systems, including scientific, political, individual, local, and cultural insights. Activities take place in fifteen countries, featuring hands-on soil education through Community Engaged Research and Learning.

To address awareness gaps, LOESS organizes focused campaigns and events to facilitate knowledge exchange, promote discussions, and enhance material uptake. The project engages with public authorities and educational institutions to offer targeted recommendations and resources for improved knowledge enhancement. Capacity building, knowledge exchange, and peer-to-peer learning support LOESS's educational and dissemination activities.