Race and racism in soil science

Abstract

Soil science is one of the least diverse fields within science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Because demographics of groups and institutions provide a window into the culture, climate, equity and inclusion of minoritized scholars, we discuss how lack of diversity continues to affect our science and the scientific community, and its implications for the welfare of the global population. We highlight the role of antiracist practices and policies for improving workplace climate and thereby developing a diverse and inclusive scientific community. We present this article as a starting point for discussions on issues of race and racism in our scientific community and institutions.

Highlights

• Soil science remains one of the least diverse fields in STEM.
• Workplace climate plays a major role in perpetuating the lack of diversity within soil science and other fields within geosciences.
• Incorporation of antiracist practices and policies is urgently needed to reverse the current trend and improve representation in our scientific community.