Speech by the scientific secretary of the conference

Soil is a vital and complex material that plays a key role in ensuring human health, food security and the maintenance of ecosystems. Soil is the main source of nutrients for humans and approximately 80% of our calories come from agricultural products grown in the soil. Soil also acts as a natural filter, removing water pollutants. However, it can be easily affected by human activities and retain heavy metals, organic chemicals and pathogens that endanger human health and ecosystems. Soil degradation leads to reduced agricultural production and threatens food security, and can also lead to the transmission of pathogens through dust and water pollution. Therefore, maintaining soil health is essential for maintaining human health, food security and the maintenance of ecosystems.

With the help of God Almighty, the first national conference on "Soil Health, Human Health, and Food Security" with the slogan "Soil Health: The Key to Human Health and Food Security" will be held in person and virtually at Shahed University in March of this year. This conference aims to create interdisciplinary solidarity between experts in soil science, agriculture, medicine, basic sciences, and other related fields, seeking to raise awareness and attention to the vital role of soil in ensuring human health and food security. Other goals of this conference include exchanging views, providing strategic suggestions, and presenting the latest research achievements in the field of soil health, food security, and human health. Summarizing and presenting the latest research achievements in universities and research centers at this conference will greatly assist the country's policymakers in making decisions on food security, healthy products, and soil health. Presenting the latest findings and experiences of professors, students, experts, and activists in the areas of the conference's themes can play an important role in raising awareness about maintaining and improving soil health, food security, and human health.