The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) organised a plenary discussion titled “Debates Across Borders”, held on the University campus in Norway, on 10 April 2025. 

Several speakers took part in the panel discussion, moderated by Gaute Einevoll. Among them was Professor Lars Bakken (NMBU), who has spent over 20 years researching soil bacteria capable of reducing greenhouse gas emissions—a field in which he gained international recognition in 2023 following a breakthrough. Also on the panel was Professor Karen Lykke (UiO), an expert in regenerative agriculture, sustainability, and food systems at the Centre for Development and the Environment. Representing SOLO, Åsgeir Almås (NMBU) shared insights from his work on the Soils for Europe project, where he is actively involved in mapping the state of soil health across Europe as part of the EU’s Soil Deal initiative.

The event facilitated discussions on the importance of soil health, tying it to the historical background of soil research and health in Norway and at NMBU alike. The event was attended by 100 participants representing civil society, innovators, international organisations and local authorities.