Standard operating procedure for handling and preparation of soil samples for chemical and physical analyses

Abstract

GLOSOLAN is a Global Soil Laboratory Network which aims to harmonize soil analysis methods and data so that soil information is comparable and interpretable across laboratories, countries and regions. Evidence-based decisions are critical to the achievement of Sustainable Soil Management (SSM), food security and nutrition, and Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development. While the quantity and quality of soil data are fundamental, soil information must also be harmonized and globally consistent to have impact.

Standard operating procedures (SOPs) are sets of step-by-step written instructions that help lab staff to carry out routine operations by describing, in detail, how to perform a laboratory process or experiment safely and effectively. SOPs aim to achieve efficiency, quality of output and uniformity of performance, while reducing miscommunication and failure to comply with laboratory and international standards. The harmonization of laboratory standard operating procedures and methods is at the basis of harmonizing soil laboratory data.