Topics | Umweltbundesamt

Precautionary soil protection means detecting and counteracting harmful impacts on soil early on, i.e., well before soil’s functions become endangered. Once soil has lost its functional capacity it is very difficult to restore. This has implications for all other areas of the environment, including humans. read more

Soil protection continues to be treated as the stepchild of environmental politics. This is not just, for soils and their many interconnections to water, air and the climate as well as providing the site for foods and feedstuffs play a crucial role at the heart of precautionary environmental politics. To support the Federal Environment Agency (UBA) in the area of soil protection, Prof. Dr. Andreas... read more

Soil protection is an environmental protection task involving overlapping activities, whose scientific aspects involve specialists from numerous disciplines who address soil protection issues. In view of the multifarious environmental consequences of farming, the UBA has strengthened its competencies in this regard via two commissions and an advisory board. read more

In order for soil to be reliably protected, its status must be monitored continuously over extended periods. Soil data allows for the early detection of soil status and function related changes and damage, which in turn form the basis for elaboration of the necessary measures. Following is a list of the main federal projects and instruments in this regard. read more

In Germany, soil protection is carried out at many levels. The federal government lays down the necessary legal frameworks, which are implemented by the regional states. The UBA compiles, assesses, and provides information on soil status, develops and assesses soil conservation and optimization measures. In carrying out these activities, collaboration with partners beyond our borders is important. read more

Federal and regional-state specialists network extensively nationwide via thematic working groups. European and international networking in the field of contamination cleanup has been ongoing for many years, thanks to project funding from the European Commission. read more

It’s no exaggeration to say that Germany’s land undergoes all manner of abuse on a daily basis, ranging from contaminant and nutrient inputs to road and housing construction and erosion. Moreover, climate change has a devastating effect on soil ecology, which can also be degraded by intensive farming. read more

Life in all its multifarious forms would be unthinkable without the earth’s various soils, which can only assure a plentiful and healthy supply of food and drinking water if their ecology remains intact. But how can we best ensure that our soils are used judiciously and responsibly as habitats and resources? The UBA contributes to soil stewardship among other things by disseminating information. read more