Soil Quality

Problem statement

It is estimated that a third of the world’s soil is moderately to highly degraded, soil supports countless ecosystems and is essential for sustaining life. The pollution of soils, loss of topsoil's and erosion are all contributing to the degradation of this vital resource.

Key stakeholders

Site owners
Regulators
Laboratories
Contractors
Consultants

Knowledge base

EU soil strategy for 2030
Summary of the state of the environment: Soil Environmental Agency England
Scottish Government: State of the Environment - Soil Quality Report
Soil quality – A critical review - Bünemann et al 2018

Challenges

Developing and implementing a comprehensive protection policy
Increasing carbon storage in soils
Reducing the application of pesticides and chemicals
Reducing soil sealing

Member priorities

Restoring or improving soil quality
Improving soil Biodiversity
Natural capital assessment
Land stewardship

Working Partnerships

Linking site owners and innovators (universities, start-ups, small companies)
Promote partnerships between NICOLE members and innovators
Promoting best practice

Research and innovation stage