The Soil Monitoring Law will help improve soil resilience, ensure better management of contaminated sites and introduce land-take mitigation principles, with a focus on soil sealing (the covering of soil with impermeable materials) and soil removal (e.g. during extraction and construction activities).

Member states will set up monitoring systems to assess the physical, chemical, and biological condition of soils of their territory based on a common methodology. Emerging contaminants such as PFAS, pesticides, and microplastics will also be monitored.

A set of soil descriptors, with relevant thresholds, will help Member States identify priorities and support measures that lead to healthier soils.

The Commission and EEA will assist Member states by developing common tools and methodologies and by facilitating the exchange of information and best practices.

That Law is an outcome of the EU Soil Strategy for 2030 and supports the Commission’s strategic priorities of sustainable prosperity and competitiveness, strategic autonomy, and sustaining our quality of life.