The Role of Plant Roots in Soil Health (Root2Res Policy Brief #2)

This policy brief, produced in the Root2Res project focuses on the following key messages: Soil health is critical for sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, food security and biodiversity. Roots play a key role in soil carbon storage, water retention, structure formation, resilience and biodiversity — yet they’re often overlooked in policy and research. We need targeted investment in root trait research, breeding, and field trials to unlock their full potential. Support policies are needed that reward living root systems — through the CAP, national soil strategies and new incentives for farmers