KULeuvenX: As above, so below: An introduction to soils, ecosystems and livelihoods in the Tropics

by KU Leuven

Tropical Soils: Understanding and Preserving Earth's Vital Resource

Offered by KULeuvenX

Course Description

Welcome to "Tropical Soils: Understanding and Preserving Earth's Vital Resource," an engaging and comprehensive course that takes you on a virtual journey through the diverse soils of tropical ecosystems. This intermediate-level course delves into the fascinating world of soil science and its crucial role in sustainable development.

As you embark on this educational adventure, you'll explore five major biomes: forests, mountains, grasslands, deserts, and wetlands. Through engaging videos, case studies, and expert instruction from KU Leuven and ISRIC, you'll gain a deep understanding of how soils form, their unique properties, and their impact on biodiversity and human livelihoods.

What You'll Learn

Soil formation processes and their relationship to climate and landscape position
Recognition and classification of major world soils using the WRB 2016 system
Interpretation of soil maps
Assessment of soil-related opportunities and challenges for biodiversity and livelihoods
Application of sustainable soil management practices
Real-world problem-solving through case studies

Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of life sciences (chemistry, biology, physics)
Basic knowledge in Soil Science is strongly recommended (a short introduction to basic soil concepts is provided in the course)

Course Content

Introduction to tropical soils and their importance
Soil forming factors and classification systems
Major soil types in forests, mountains, grasslands, deserts, and wetlands
Soil functions and their role in ecosystem services
Soil threats and conservation strategies
Sustainable soil management practices
Interpretation of soil maps and data
Case studies from various tropical regions
Application of soil knowledge to real-world challenges

Who This Course Is For

Environmental science students
Agriculture and forestry professionals
Conservationists and ecologists
Land use planners and policymakers
Anyone interested in sustainable development and tropical ecosystems

Real-World Applications

Developing sustainable agricultural practices in tropical regions
Designing effective soil conservation strategies
Assessing land suitability for different uses
Implementing ecosystem restoration projects
Advising on policy decisions related to land use and management
Conducting environmental impact assessments
Contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts

Syllabus

Optional module: Basic soil concepts

Module 1: Soils in the tropics

Introduction to the tropics
Main soil forming factors
Soil functions and threats
Soil classification

Module 2: Forests

Virtual excursion through the Congo Basin and Borneo
Ferralsols, Acrisols, Histosols, and Cambisols
Case studies on agroforestry, coffee production, and shifting cultivation

Module 3: Mountains

Virtual excursion to Kilimanjaro and the Ethiopian Highlands
Cryosols, Andosols, Nitisols, Luvisols, Vertisols, Leptosols, Calcisols, and Regosols
Case studies on landslides, rice cultivation, and termites

Module 4: Grasslands

Virtual excursion in Cameroon and the Dry Chaco in Argentina
Arenosols, Lixisols, Plinthosols, Stagnosols, Planosols, Phaozems, and Solonetz
Case studies on sustainable farming, Integrated Soil Fertility Management, and land use in the Mount Elgon region

Module 5: Deserts

Virtual excursion through the Sahara and Danakil deserts
Gypsisols, Arenosols, and Solonchaks
Case studies on Archeomigrations and reforestation

Module 6: Rivers and wetlands

Virtual excursion along the Nile and the Pantanal, Brazil
Fluvisols, Gleysols, and Vertisols
Case studies on acid Fluvisols, the Niger delta, and data density

This course offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights into tropical soils and their management, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to contribute to sustainable development in some of the world's most diverse and challenging ecosystems.

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