VARIABLE CHARGE SOIL CONFERENCE
Chemical Interactions in Variable Charge Soils:
Implications for Soil Productivity, Pollutant Impacts, and Management Strategies
REGISTRATIONS WILL OPEN SOON
Unlocking the Secrets of Variable Charge Soils for Sustainable Agriculture and Ecosystem Protection
Join us in Newcastle for a groundbreaking international conference dedicated to exploring the intricate dynamics of chemical interactions in soils with variable charge.
Date
From 15 December 2025
Location
Newcastle Exhibition Centre
These unique soil types, prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, as well as in young soils derived from volcanic ash, demonstrate fascinating properties that influence soil productivity, nutrient and pollutant behaviour, and management strategies in both agricultural and environmental contexts.
Our conference aims to bring together researchers, soil scientists, engineers, developers, policymakers, and land managers from around the globe to share insights, discuss challenges, and develop innovative solutions for sustainable soil management.
Soils with variable charge are characterised by their dynamic interactions with various substances, including nutrients and contaminants. In addition, slope instability in these soils – especially in sloping landscapes – is significantly influenced by factors such as rainfall, soil hydration, and the dynamic nature of soil charge properties. Rainfall increases soil moisture, reducing effective stress and altering pore water pressures, which can precipitate landslides. In variable charge soils, the relationship between changing ionic strength and water content affects soil cohesion and friction, leading to heightened susceptibility to instability.
Understanding the hydrological and electrochemical processes involved is essential for effective slope management.
The following key subthemes will guide our discussions, highlighting the complexity of interactions within variable charge soils and their profound implications for ecosystem functionality and sustainability. Comprehending these dynamics is crucial for effective land management, conservation strategies, and mitigating negative environmental impacts.
What are Soils with Variable Charge?
Variable charge soils are soils that exhibit changes in surface charge based on environmental conditions, pH, and the presence of ions. These soils are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions and play a vital role in nutrient dynamics and contaminant behaviour. However, young soils such as those derived from basalts including allophonic and imogolitic soils also exhibit variable charge.
Key Features:
- Distribution: Predominantly found in weathered regions with high rainfall, including parts of Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia. Less weathered soils that include allphanic and imogolitic minerals including Japan, NZ
- Mineralogy: Composed of minerals such as allophanes, imogoloites, kaolinite, gibbsite, and oxides of iron and aluminum, which influence chemical retention and release.
Key themes on soils with variable charge:
- Chemistry and mineralogy
- Nutrient Interactions
- Agronomic Practices and Nutrient Management
- Water Management and Hydrological Dynamics
- Contaminant Interactions and Risk Management
- Slope Instability
- Climate Change and Ecosystem Sustainability
- Dynamic Nature of Variable Charge Soils and Ecosystem Impacts
The Chemical Interactions in Soils with Variable Charge conference serves as an essential platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration among experts.
By delving into these key themes and subthemes, participants will enhance their understanding of the multifaceted interactions in variable charge soils, setting the stage for effective management practices that promote soil productivity, environmental safety, and sustainable agriculture globally.
Join us in fostering a dialogue that empowers innovative solutions for the future of our soils and ecosystems.
Registration
Details to come
Contact information
Contact admin@crccare.com