Tackling soil compaction and, as a consequence, boosting global food production, is set to be the overarching theme set for World Soil Day 2026.

World Soil Day is a recognised highlight of the global farming year that takes place annually on December 5, celebrating the role of healthy soil in food production.

It is organised by the United Nations’ (UN's) Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), and co-ordinated by the Global Soil Partnership.

This is a voluntary multi-stakeholder partnership, established by the FAO in 2012 to promote soil governance and sustainable soil management.

Over the long-term, its work contributes to healthier soils, more resilient agri-food systems, and the achievement of the UN's sustainable development goals.

Teagasc

In Ireland, this theme is particularly relevant as Teagasc recently signed the EU Soil Mission Manifesto, reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to supporting farmers and land managers to safeguard soil health for the benefit of people, nature, food production, and climate.

By signing the manifesto, Teagasc is declaring its support for the EU Mission: A Soil Deal for Europe.

This initiative aims to establish 100 soil living labs and lighthouses by 2030 to address challenges including erosion, soil pollution, loss of soil organic carbon, declining soil biodiversity, and land degradation.

The manifesto encourages action at global, national, regional, and local levels.

Specifically, it recognises that soil is essential for the life of humans and nature. Approximately, 95% of all food comes from soil.

There is a clear confirmation within the manifesto that soil is the basis of people's well-being. As a consequence, it is helping to create a community that takes care of soils.

Looking ahead, the manifesto will provide further opportunities to strengthen European collaboration, share knowledge, and translate research into practical solutions for healthy soils.

Teagasc has said it will continue to contribute to raising awareness of soil health and supporting farmers, land managers, students, researchers, and communities in understanding, protecting, and restoring soils.