Boosting soil literacy in schools can help improve understanding of soil/human health linkages in Generation Z
About Paper
This research article explores the importance of soil literacy in helping younger generations understand the connections between soil health, human health, food security, and climate resilience. It highlights the role of education in strengthening awareness of soil as a living system and, through research with students in Ghana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, identifies the need for hands-on learning approaches that reconnect young people with the relationships between soil, food, ecosystems, and wellbeing.
Key points:
Soil health is closely connected to food security, ecosystem stability, climate resilience, and human health.
Many young people have positive attitudes towards soil but limited knowledge of how soil functions and how it can be protected.
Improving soil literacy through education can help future generations make informed decisions about environmental sustainability.
Hands-on learning approaches, such as engaging with living soil systems, can strengthen connections between students and the natural world.
Understanding soil as a living system can support broader awareness of climate change, biodiversity, nutrition, and sustainable food systems.
This paper may resonate with readers interested in soil education, environmental awareness, regenerative agriculture, sustainability, and the role of young people in shaping healthier relationships with the planet.
Authored by Karen L. Johnson, Wendy Stone, Lena Dominelli, Stephen Chivasa, Catherine E. Clarke, Tariro Gwandu & Joanne Appleby
Journal Frontiers in Environmental Science
