Funded with €6 million by the Horizon Europe program, under the Soil Mission, the SOILTRIBES project stands out as a pioneering initiative to enhance soil literacy and promote sustainable practices that ensure soil protection and regeneration.

This project brings together entrepreneurs, scientists, artists, educators, and citizens to build a collaborative platform around the theme of “soil literacy.” With 25 consortium partners from 11 EU Member States, the project is well-positioned to mobilize organizations and individuals across Europe, significantly amplifying the impact and effectiveness of its actions.

Soil Mission: An Urgent Environmental Challenge

Europe’s soils face severe environmental threats, including degradation, erosion, and biodiversity loss, directly jeopardizing food security, ecosystem sustainability, and climate change mitigation. In response to these challenges, SOILTRIBES aims to:

  • Raise public awareness about the critical role of soils.
  • Demonstrate the impact of human practices on ecosystem balance.
  • Encourage the adoption of more sustainable behaviors.

Through collaborative networks and practical actions, the project seeks to transform how European communities perceive, interact with, and care for soils, engaging them in creating innovative solutions for soil regeneration.

Strategic Actions of SOILTRIBES

The project adopts a collaborative approach combining educational, artistic, and practical initiatives:

  • Support for innovative projects: Providing micro-financing and incentives for disruptive initiatives that promote soil preservation and regeneration.
  • Awareness events and activities: Organizing fairs, workshops, festivals, and hands-on activities to bring the public closer to the importance of soil.
  • Network of “soil tribes”: Mobilizing communities of practice, including entrepreneurs, scientists, artists, educators, and citizens, to develop new emotional and practical connections with soil.
  • Educational and creative initiatives: Developing educational materials, traveling art exhibitions, and competitions such as “Young Soil Scientists Meet News Outlets,” fostering engagement at multiple levels.

Expected Impact on the Soil Mission

SOILTRIBES aims to achieve significant results across multiple dimensions, contributing to the goals of the Soil Mission:

  • Environmental Impact: Regenerating degraded soils while preserving biodiversity and contributing to climate resilience and the sustainability of European ecosystems.
  • Social Impact: Engaging over 75,000 participants in practical activities and reaching more than 1 million citizens through educational campaigns.
  • Economic Impact: Encouraging sustainable agricultural and business practices aligned with the European Green Deal objectives and supporting the transition to a greener and more resilient economy.

A Sustainable Legacy for the Future

SOILTRIBES represents a transformative platform that bridges science, art, and society, aiming to leave a lasting legacy. Led by INOVA+, the project not only values soil as a natural resource but also as a vital pillar for the quality of life and the sustainable future of communities.

With its consolidated expertise in international projects, INOVA+ ensures the efficient execution of actions, mobilizing a European network of strategic partners. This approach reflects a continuous commitment to empowering communities, fostering the adoption of conscious and sustainable practices.

By promoting a deeper and more practical connection between citizens and soils, SOILTRIBES inspires concrete actions to preserve this vital resource, creating a positive impact for future generations.

Did you know that INOVA+ is the Portuguese company with the highest participation in Horizon Europe Missions? We have a specialized team that ensures access and support for the participation of various organizations in international consortia and projects. Learn more!