Harmonized world soil database v1.2

The Harmonized World Soil Database (HWSD) v1.2 is a crucial global dataset offering standardized soil information. Developed jointly by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), this database represents a significant effort to consolidate diverse soil data sources into a coherent framework.

This version, HWSD v1.2, provides a 30 arc-second raster database, encompassing over 15,000 distinct soil mapping units. It intelligently combines existing regional and national soil datasets, alongside the foundational FAO-UNESCO Soil Map of the World, to ensure comprehensive and consistent coverage across the globe.

The HWSD is an invaluable resource for a wide array of applications, including climate change modeling, assessments of food security, and sustainable land management initiatives. Its harmonized approach facilitates global-scale analyses and informed decision-making related to soil resources and agricultural productivity.