Dig deep

1. Understanding Soil Ecosystems – Participants will explore different local soil ecosystems and learn about the biodiversity within them.
2. Developing Observation Skills – This activity sharpens observational skills by encouraging detailed notes on soil composition and the organisms that inhabit it.
3. Promoting Environmental Awareness – Participants will gain a deeper appreciation of the importance of healthy soil ecosystems and their role in supporting life.

1. Visit local parks, gardens, or a forest where you can dig and observe the soil. Make sure to get permission if needed!

2. Look closely at the surface. Is the soil dark and moist or dry and bare? What kinds of plants and trees are growing nearby?

3. Using a small shovel, carefully dig a hole about 30 cm deep. Be careful not to damage any plants. Observe the soil layers as you dig deeper. Can you see differences in the soil texture or colour at different depths?

4. Look closely for any insects, worms, or other creatures living in the soil. How many can you find? Do they change as you dig deeper?

5. Make sketches or take photos of what you see at different depths. Note how the soil feels (moist, dry, sandy, etc.) and any creatures you discover.

6. Once you're done, be sure to fill the hole back up to leave the environment as you found it.

7. Create a booklet with your observations, drawings, or photos and share it with your group. Discuss how the soil changes in different locations and why this might be important.

1. What differences did you notice in the soil as you dug deeper? How do you think these differences affect the plants and animals that live there?

2. What kinds of creatures did you find in the soil? How do you think they help the soil ecosystem?

3. Why is it important to protect soil and keep it healthy? How might human activities, like farming or construction, impact the soil?

4. How did the soil vary between different locations (parks, gardens, forests)? What do these differences tell you about the environments?

5. What actions can you take to protect and care for soil in your area?

The Youth and United Nations Global Alliance (YUNGA) is a collaborative initiative between various UN agencies and civil society organisations to inspire, educate, and engage young people as agents of change. The YUNGA Challenge Badges provide educational resources and activities aimed at raising awareness on pressing global issues, such as biodiversity, gender equality, soil health, and more, encouraging young people to take positive action within their communities. These badges, endorsed by organisations such as WOSM and WAGGGS, offer a fun and dynamic approach to learning, perfect for both school and youth groups.

Badge: Soils Challenge Badge

The Soils Challenge Badge is designed to help young people understand the critical role soils play in supporting life on Earth. This badge covers the formation of soils, their use in sustaining ecosystems, and the threats posed by human activity and climate change. It encourages participants to explore, reflect on, and take steps toward conserving soil, ensuring a sustainable future for all. To learn more about this badge and how to earn it please visit https://www.fao.org/yunga/resources/challenge-badges/en/