The principal provider of reference data and knowledge at EU-level for all matters relating to soil.
The Soil Health Gateway provides access to a range of soil health data and related knowledge through the implementation of the Soil Monitoring and Resilience Directive (also referred to as the Soil Monitoring Law). The gateway aims to make existing soil health information easily accessible, promoting transparency and informed decision-making.
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.
The Soil Monitoring Law, which entered into force on 16 December 2025, aims to address key soil degradation processes in the EU and enhance the multiple ecosystem services provided by healthy soils.
Download the Law
