Variable Charge
Soil Conference

Chemical Interactions in Variable Charge Soils:
Implications for Soil Productivity, Pollutant Impacts, and Management Strategies

Save the date

4-6 March 2026

Join us

Newcastle Exhibition & Convention Centre (NEX), Newcastle, NSW

Registrations will open soon

INNOVATE | MITIGATE | SUSTAIN

Join us for a groundbreaking international conference dedicated to exploring the intricate dynamics of chemical interactions in soils with variable charge.

These unique soil types, prevalent in old, weathered landscapes, 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 require their 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.

Themes We’re Covering at the conference

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.

Explore the Program

Soils with variable charge are characterised by their dynamic interactions with various substances, including nutrients and contaminants. In addition, slope stability 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.

&

Industry leading presenters:

Cutting-edge presentations on variable charge soils research

&

Proven solutions:

Innovative solutions for real problems

&

Meet passionate industry professionals:

Networking with thought leaders and change-makers

&

Actionable insights:

Get insights into sustainable practices and eco-friendly innovations

Be part of a transformative event that brings together experts from around the world. Secure your place at the VARIABLE CHARGE SOIL Conference and join the conversation shaping the future of SLOPE MANAGEMENT.

MEET OUR TITANIUM SPONSOR: OCP

MERIEM EL ASRAOUI
Chief Global Affairs Officer
OCP Group

This partnership with crcCARE underscores OCP Group’s longstanding engagement with the global scientific community. It reflects our dedication to contributing to the development of evidence-based solutions that foster both agricultural productivity and sustainability. This partnership provides an invaluable platform to contribute to high-level scientific dialogue, to share and to gain access to new insights, and to collaborate with leading experts and institutions in the field of soil science.

We deeply value the scientific and strategic significance of this conference, particularly given the critical role that variable charge soils play in tropical and subtropical agriculture. The exploration of fertilizer–soil interactions, nutrient dynamics, and environmental risk mitigation aligns closely with OCP Group’s commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture practices and promoting soil health across diverse geographies globally, particularly in Africa.

We are particularly honoured to deliver opening remarks and to associate OCP Group’s name with the conference’s core objectives and its commitment to scientific integrity. We also appreciate the additional visibility and engagement opportunities afforded by the Titanium sponsorship package.

Become a Sponsor or Exhibitor

We’re excited to partner with organisations committed to tackling variable charge soils. Join us as a sponsor or exhibitor and be part of the innovative solutions and research driving change in this critical area.