After recalling the now classical argument about the recent recession of soil survey, a comparayive analysis is presented of the present soil survey status in developed and less advanced countries. In contrast with this rather pessimistic background, a renovation is going on, promoted mainly by the use of new techniques for data collection and handing. Limitations that hinder developing countries from benefitting from advances in information technology can be overcome by participating in international cooperation programmes aiming at technology transfer. The authors also describe a set of challenging issues, derived primarily from the effects of human activities on the environment, that can be used to boost soil survey and stimulate interest by both traditional and potential users. In this context, agricultural development, urban expansion, environmental impact assessment and management, and natural resource economics offer a large range of challenges and opportunities to create and mobilize soil information.