Measurement site at the LWF demo site at WSL Birmensdorf
Soils mostly present themselves to us as a diverse surface, the interior of which remains hidden from us. If one likes to investigate the life and the physical structures and the processes present in a soil, then it is necessary to dig it up in order to take samples or insert sensors – and this normally disturbs the soil. However, is it also possible to investigate and describe the biodiversity and composition of a soil in an acoustic manner thereby not disturbing it? And: how do different kinds of soils sound, what organisms make noises or even make use of the soil as an acoustic communication medium? Can one hear how water penetrates the soil or gases evaporate? How can the “soil soundscape” be scientifically and artistically revealed?
Healthy soils are of key importance for the future of mankind. Sustainably managed soils enhance the resilience of agricultural systems, are better able to adapt to changing climatic conditions, while also contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere by storing carbon. As soils are one of the foundations of all life in the world, it is therefore absolutely vital that they remain intact – this is also our motivation with this scientific-artistic contribution to make it possible to experience and perceive the soil ecosystem in order to raise social awareness of soils.
Acoustic and soil water potential measurements compared