The British Society of Soil Science (BSSS), founded in 1947, is an established international membership organisation committed to the study of soil in its widest aspects. The Society covers soil science in its applications to, agriculture, horticulture and forestry and other branches of science and technology that impinge on the soil. The Society acts as a forum for the exchange of ideas and provides a framework for representing the views of soil scientists to other organisations and decision making bodies. Soil is a very precious resource that has a range of functions. These include support for plants, ecosystem biodiversity, and growing medium for crops. Soils interact with the wider environment, acting as a store and filter for water. Soils support many human activities, and preserve evidence of our cultural heritage. The Society promotes research by organising several conferences each year and by the publication of its two scientific journals, the European Journal of Soil Science, and Soil Use and Management. It promotes education through a number of initiatives aimed at schools, colleges and universities. The Society has a regular and varied programme of scientific conferences on a wide range of soil-related issues.