Europe's first Soil Monitoring Law: opportunities for policy, research and practice

Soil degradation is a pressing challenge, with an estimated 60-70% of EU soils currently in poor health. Healthy soils are fundamental to broader societal wellbeing, ecological resilience and a sustainable economy, as they provide critical functions. They are also key in addressing the interconnected crises of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. In response to this urgent issue, the European Commission has taken a series of steps, including the adoption of the Soil Strategy for 2030, the proposal for a Soil Monitoring Law and the launch of the Mission “A Soil Deal for Europe”. Central to this mission is the establishment of 100 Living Labs and Lighthouses to support the transition towards healthy soils through research and innovation and the demonstration and testing of solutions. This event – hosted by the SOILL-Startup project which provides the support structure for these living labs and lighthouses - takes place at a key moment, as EU institutions prepare to adopt the first ever EU law on soils. It will serve as a platform to explore the transformative opportunities that the Soil Monitoring Law offers and provide insights into how potential applicants for future Soil Mission Living Labs can leverage the law's implementation processes. The event brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, regional representatives and civil society, to foster dialogue and collaboration, at a key political momentum for healthy soils in Europe.