Cultivating better soils – with VH Ulm
From biochar demos to climate solutions, participants explored why healthy soil is key for food security and a sustainable future? Participants got hands-on experience and fresh insights into how simple, natural practices can restore ecosystems and strengthen food systems.
Simple steps, big impact
At the recent soil workshop hosted in collaboration with the Women’s Academy of VH (Folks High School) Ulm, betterSoil guided participants through an eye-opening journey into the power of healthy soil. The workshop emphasized that everyone, whether tending a backyard garden or managing a large farm, has a role to play in restoring and protecting our soils. Through live demonstrations and hands-on activities, attendees explored the four core principles of betterSoil: soil management, compost, biochar, and agroforestry. One of the highlights of the session was comparing soil samples/pieces with and without biochar, where participants saw firsthand how this powerful material enhances soil structure, water retention, and microbial life. These practical insights brought home the message that better soil means better yields, stronger ecosystems, and real climate action.
Soil as a game changer in the climate crisis
The discussion went beyond gardening tips; they explored why soil is a game changer in the fight against climate change. Participants learned how life-rich soils serve as carbon sinks, capturing and storing atmospheric CO₂ through natural interactions between soil organisms, plants, and the atmosphere. The four principles, when applied can accelerate the transition, making soil regeneration processes not just a farming technique but a climate solution. This systemic approach which merges traditional knowledge, scientific research, and global climate goals resonated with the group, sparking thoughtful dialogue on how local action connects to global impact. The workshop ended with a powerful takeaway: better soil can be built anywhere, by anyone. All it takes is the willingness to care for the ground beneath our feet.