The Soil Science Societies of Germany (DBG), the Czech Republic (ČPS) and Poland (PTG) have jointly submitted their bid to host the World Congress of Soil Science 2034 in Leipzig. With this trilateral bid, the three societies aim to bring the international soil science community together in the heart of Europe.

The proposed congress motto is “Soil Science in Times of Transformation.” It addresses the major changes shaping soils and soil science worldwide: climate change, land-use change, soil degradation, biodiversity loss, food security, digital methods and the growing importance of exchange between science, policy, practice and society.

Watch the bid video:

Leipzig provides a particularly fitting setting for this theme. The city stands for transformation — historically through the Peaceful Revolution of 1989, and today through ecological and landscape change in the region, including the former lignite mining areas south of Leipzig. At the same time, Leipzig is located in the wider border region of Germany, the Czech Republic and Poland, offering diverse opportunities for scientific exchange, field excursions and cross-border cooperation.

WCSS 2034 is planned for 10–14 September 2034. In addition to the main scientific programme, the congress is expected to include field excursions, an International Soil Judging Contest, activities for early-career scientists, and formats linking soils with art, education and science communication.

The decision on the host city will be made during WCSS 2026 in Nanjing. DBG, ČPS and PTG look forward to presenting their joint bid there to the international soil science community.