monalisa and the Mission
THE EU MISSION SOIL
A Soil Deal for Europe
Healthy soils are essential for life on Earth, underpinning our food systems, clean water supplies, and biodiversity, while playing a critical role in climate resilience. Yet, today, According to the European Commission, 60-70% of European Soils are considered unhealthy. Recognizing this urgent challenge, the EU has launched the ambitious Mission “A Soil Deal for Europe” as part of Horizon Europe, aiming to restore soil health and ensure its sustainable management.
What is the Soil Deal Mission?
The Soil Deal Mission aims to transition toward healthy soils by 2030 through the creation of an effective network of 100 living labs and lighthouses across Europe. These initiatives will act as hubs for innovation, demonstration, and collaboration, advancing soil health solutions and engaging diverse stakeholders, from farmers and foresters to researchers and local communities.
Living Labs and Lighthouses: A Collaborative Approach
- Living Labs are real-world sites where multi-actor collaborations co-create, test, and refine innovative solutions for soil health. These labs focus on local challenges, fostering the development of adaptable practices across various land uses, including agriculture, forestry, and urban areas.
- Lighthouses serve as demonstration sites showcasing exemplary achievements in soil restoration and sustainable management. They inspire broader adoption of successful practices within and beyond the Mission’s network.
Key Objectives and Actions
The Mission is embedded in the EU’s Green Deal strategies, contributing to the overarching goal of making Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. Its key actions include:
- Establishing a harmonized framework for soil monitoring in Europe.
- Raising awareness of the importance of soil health through education and communication campaigns.
- Promoting sustainable soil management practices across different sectors and regions.
- Supporting the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to enhance the implementation of soil-related measures.
A Vision for the Future
The Mission “A Soil Deal for Europe” exemplifies how innovative policies, scientific research, and multi-stakeholder engagement can address one of the most pressing environmental challenges. By advancing soil health, the Mission will help ensure food security, support biodiversity and build climate-resilient communities.
For more information on the Soil Deal Mission, visit the EU Research and Innovation website.