10 August 2022, China: Zhang Taolin, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, was awarded the IUSS Distinguished Service Medal by the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) at the 22nd World Congress of Soil Science (WCSS) in Glasgow, UK on Aug. 4, 2022. Prior to the Congress, Vice Minister Zhang met with IUSS President Dr. Laura Bertha Reyes-Sanchez and IUSS Honorary Member Dr. Winfried Blum.
In his acceptance speech, Vice Minister Zhang stressed that soil plays multiple roles, covering agricultural production, environmental protection and ecological conservation. It is of great value in food, fiber and energy production as well as adaptation to climate change. Strengthening soil research and translating soil S&T into effective management actions, policies and regulations is a matter of great importance and urgency. As a key driver of and contributor to global food security and sustainable agricultural development, China stands ready to work with all parties to deepen international exchanges and cooperation on soil conservation and utilization.
Founded in 1924, the IUSS is an international academic organization specializing in soil sciences. It has recognized outstanding people working in soil sciences who have contributed significantly to the growth and consolidation of the discipline, the promotion and reinforcement of soil conservation and utilization as well as the innovation and improvement of public policies on soil management by awarding the IUSS Distinguished Service Medal.
