At just 19, Sahil Jha is pedalling his way into the hearts and headlines of the world, embarking on a jaw-dropping 20,000-kilometre solo bicycle journey across four continents to raise awareness about the global soil crisis.
In Australia, starting in March 2025 from Bundaberg, Queensland, Sahil is cycling through deserts, mountains, snow and scorching heat, all in a bid to promote sustainable farming practices and advocate for global soil health policies.
Sahil’s ambitious mission: to plant 11 million trees, engage policymakers and institutions, and inspire a movement to prevent what he calls “soil extinction.”
“The mission is to raise awareness about the global soil crisis and advocate for sustainable agricultural practices that can restore soil health.”
The young changemaker’s campaign, rooted in the Save Soil movement, began when he was just 16 and rode 15,000 km across India in 15 months. Along the way, he connected with over 250 institutions, politicians, and influencers, delivering passionate calls to protect our planet’s most vital resource: its soil.
Sahil’s journey has already inspired support from international leaders and organisations. In Canberra, the Indian High Commission hosted a special session to honour Sahil’s efforts. The event was graced by notable guests including the Hon. Penny Wensley AC, former Governor of Queensland; Irina Thakur, Deputy High Commissioner of India; and senior diplomats from the US, France, and other countries.
In a post on X, Sahil wrote, “Truly a proud moment for my country Bharat 🇮🇳🌏. Feeling proud to carry Bharat’s message for soil health across borders. Let’s make soil a global priority.”
The soil crisis, Sahil emphasises on his GoFundMe page, is no longer a future threat—it’s a present danger with devastating consequences:
- Nutrition: Over 2 billion people suffer from nutritional deficiencies due to poor soil health.
- Climate: Degraded soils emit more carbon dioxide and worsen water scarcity.
- Biodiversity: Ecosystems and species are vanishing with declining soil quality.
- Food Security: In 20 years, we may grow 40% less food for an expected population of 9.3 billion.
Sahil believes the solution lies in boosting soil organic content and adopting sustainable agricultural practices worldwide.
As he cycles from Sydney to Adelaide, supporters are urged to join him, even for a few kilometres, or host local events to amplify the message.
Amod Datar, Australian coordinator of the Save Soil movement, has called on cycling clubs and communities to show solidarity.
“It will be wonderful if riders and supporters can accompany Sahil or host small sessions where he can speak about the urgent action required.”
Sahil’s campaign is helping to cover logistics, equipment, accommodation, and outreach. He is also calling for sponsors, social media shares, and community engagement to spread the word. “This isn’t just my journey,” Sahil says.
“It’s a collective mission to secure a healthy future for all. With your support, we can turn the tide on soil degradation—one pedal at a time.”
To follow or support Sahil’s journey, visit his official campaign page or join the conversation using #SaveSoil.
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