Regulations in soil protection law exist at both national and European level. The numerous EU provisions must be implemented into national law. Relevant soil protection provisions could in particular be found in EU chemical law, waste law and in legislation on facilities and industrial installations. International law also contains important provisions on soil protection.
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.
Farm vehicles exert pressure on the soil that varies according to equipment weight. If the weight generated underneath the tires exceeds ground stability, the soil particles are compacted; this in turn degrades soil quality. And as farm equipment grows ever heavier, problems can result.
Soil pollutants are ubiquitous. They stem from natural sources, factories, farming, transportation, and households. Deposits of such soil pollutants can seep into the groundwater or are uptaken by plants, they can pose an environmental and health risk.
Germany is blessed with many different types of soil. In the interest of shedding greater light on the world beneath our feet, each December 5th, on World Soil Day, the Soil of the Year is presented. A panel of experts selects the soil in question. In announcing the Soil of the Year, the panel indicatesamong other things its characteristics, origin and significance for today’s society.
Soil carries out myriad functions that are free of charge and extremely powerful, and that are what make soil so valuable not only to us but also to natural flora and fauna. Clean water and healthy food are only obtainable if our soils are healthy too. And while the soil supports myriad functions, it also needs stewardship.
Germany has many different kinds of soil, which are studied and described by soil scientists. As in the plant kingdom, a distinction is made between the various types of soil. The properties of the numerous so called strong soil types differ greatly in terms of the mechanisms with which they control environmental processes. We human beings are the main beneficiaries of these functions.
