On 16 December 2025, the European Union takes a historic step to protect and restore soil health across the continent. The EU’s first-ever Soil Monitoring Law officially comes into force, marking a major milestone in tackling soil degradation—a challenge affecting 60–70% of European soils and costing the EU over €50 billion annually.
Healthy soils are the foundation of resilient agriculture, nutritious and safe food, and a stable climate. The new law addresses all aspects of soil degradation, including erosion, compaction, contamination, and soil sealing, covering agricultural land, forests, and urban areas. By requiring Member States to monitor and assess soil health, the legislation empowers tailored national actions while offering flexibility to address local conditions.
The law also introduces new tools and support for farmers and soil managers. These include guidance on soil health improvement, access to EU funding opportunities, and a brand-new soil health data portal, enhancing knowledge and transparency. Importantly, it provides solutions for managing contaminated sites, ensuring risks to human health and the environment are mitigated and publicly communicated.
Notably, the law does not impose binding targets or restrict national planning autonomy. Instead, it fosters collaboration, innovation, and sustainable land management while contributing to the EU’s climate, biodiversity, and food security goals.
This landmark legislation reinforces the EU’s commitment to protecting its natural resources, ensuring that soils continue to provide vital services for current and future generations.
Discover more about the EU Soil Monitoring Law and its implications for sustainable agriculture and environmental resilience:https://environment.ec.europa.eu/news/first-eu-law-soil-set-enter-force-2025-12-05_en