Future Soil
Future Soil - development of a rural innovation partnership (LIP)
Total cost € 309 773.00 EU contribution € 133 202.00 Funding Programme CAP 2023-2027

The valuation of land in Austria is based on economic values resulting from the geographical location, transport connections and infrastructural development (water, electricity, etc.). The qualitative value of soils in terms of food security, biodiversity, recreational space and protection against natural hazards cannot be so easily quantified in a generally understandable way and is therefore usually not sufficiently taken into account in terms of a holistic assessment. However, this knowledge is becoming increasingly important for the sustainable use of resources and security of supply. At the same time, the careful use of the resource through the preservation of soil functions (infiltration, binding of CO2, etc.) is an essential building block for the sustainable adaptation of our habitats to climate change. Much of the data that could be used to include the agricultural and qualitative value of soils in planning processes and planning decisions is already publicly available and prepared in thematic maps. However, these require an in-depth examination of project reports and explanatory texts and are primarily aimed at experts (local planners and professionals) in municipal administrations. They are therefore rarely used in practice. The ‘Future Soil’ project aims to raise awareness of the qualitative value of green spaces and agricultural soils among a wide public. A special focus is placed on the central importance of soil as a resource for security of supply.

Thematic areas

Biodiversity

Project contribution to Mission Soil’s:

Specific objectives

  • 1. Reduce land degradation relating to desertification
    Not targeted
  • 2. Conserve and increase soil organic carbon stocks
    Not targeted
  • 3. No net soil sealing and increase the reuse of urban soils
    Not targeted
  • 4. Reduce soil pollution and enhance restoration
    Not targeted
  • 5. Prevent erosion
    Not targeted
  • 6. Improve soil structure to enhance habitat quality for soil biota and crops
    Partially targeted
  • 7. Reduce the EU global footprint on soils
    Not targeted
  • 8. Increase soil literacy in society across Member States
    Not targeted

Operational objectives

  • 1. Build capacities and the knowledge base for soil stewardship
    Not targeted
  • 2. Co-create and upscale place-based innovations to improve soil health in all places
    Not targeted
  • 3. Develop an integrated EU soil monitoring system and track progress towards soil health
    Partially targeted
  • 4. Engage with the soil user community and society at large
    Partially targeted

Innovation hotspots

  • 1. Carbon farming
    Not targeted
  • 2. Soil pollution and restoration
    Not targeted
  • 3. Soil biodiversity including the microbiome
    Targeted
  • 4. Circular economy solutions
    Not targeted

Cross-cutting dimensions

  • 1. Business
    Not targeted
  • 2. Digital
    Not targeted
  • 3. Territorial
    Not targeted
  • 4. International
    Not targeted

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