Mission Soil: Leading the Way to Healthier Soils in Europe
The Mission ‘A Soil Deal for Europe’ is a European initiative dedicated to restoring and preserving soil health by 2030. Recognizing that 60-70% of EU soils are currently unhealthy, the Mission aims to reverse degradation through research, innovation, and collaborative action. Its ambitious goal is to establish 100 Living Labs and Lighthouses, where scientists, farmers, and land managers work together to test and implement real-world solutions for soil restoration. This initiative supports global sustainability efforts, aligning with EU Green Deal targets and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting climate resilience, biodiversity, and sustainable farming practices.
A key component of Mission Soil is the Living Labs and Lighthouses network. Living Labs bring together multiple stakeholders—farmers, researchers, policymakers, and land managers—to co-create solutions and test soil health innovations in real-life conditions. Lighthouses, on the other hand, serve as demonstration sites showcasing best practices in sustainable land management. The Mission also works to establish a harmonized soil monitoring system across Europe while raising awareness of soil’s essential role in food production, climate stability, and economic sustainability.