Brussels (dpa) – Due to the deteriorating condition of many soils across the EU, there will be an enhanced monitoring system implemented to assess their health. Representatives from EU member states and the European Parliament have reached an agreement to evaluate soil health using standardized indicators. Initial measures have been set to monitor pesticide levels and persistent chemicals within this new framework.
The European Parliament highlights that approximately 60 to 70 percent of soils in Europe are currently impaired, largely due to intensive agricultural practices and the impacts of climate change. The European Commission estimates that this deterioration incurs damages exceeding 50 billion euros annually. Healthy soils are crucial, as they underpin 95 percent of the food consumed in Europe and are home to over a quarter of the planet’s biodiversity.
Importantly, the Parliament clarified that farmers, foresters, and landowners will not be subjected to additional obligations. Instead, EU countries are tasked with providing support to enhance soil health and resilience, which will include offering consultations and training programs. (April 10)
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