Europe's soils just took a significant step closer to stronger protection and sustainable management. On 4 June 2025, the European Parliament's Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) voted in favour (53 votes in favour, 27 against, 2 abstentions) of the provisional agreement on the EU Soil Monitoring and Resilience Directive ( also known as SOil Monitoring Law; current text). This vote was crucial in the journey toward healthier soils across the EU.
"It’s a signal that Europe is taking soil health seriously" - said Giulia Campodonico, coordinator of the SOILL-Startup project. "This law is crucial for harmonising efforts across Member States, enabling better data comparison, shared best practices, and coordinated action, just as the Mission Soil and the network of the Soil Health Living Labs aim to do with the support of SOILL."
The proposed directive aims to establish a unified EU-wide framework for monitoring soil health, something that has been missing until now. Under this framework, all Member States would be required to set up systems for soil monitoring, sampling, analysis, and data sharing, helping to improve soil resilience and sustainability.
From Obligation to Empowerment
Months of negotiations have reshaped the original proposal. Rather than imposing strict obligations, the directive now supports and incentivises farmers to adopt soil-friendly practices. It emphasises access to training, independent advice, and capacity building, all core elements that align with the Mission Soil vision of inclusive, local engagement through Soil Health Living Labs.
What’s Next?
While this is a positive step, the road ahead still includes key milestones. The directive must now pass through:
- A vote by EU Member States in the Council (ENVI Ministers),
- A second review by the ENVI Committee,
- and A final vote in the European Parliament’s Plenary Session later this summer or autumn.
Why It Matters for SOILL and the Mission Soil Community
For those involved in soil research, innovation, and policy, including Living Labs and Lighthouses, this Directive represents a clear policy direction that reinforces the work being done across Europe. By laying the groundwork for consistent monitoring and sustainable management, it helps bridge science, practice, and policy, exactly what the Mission Soil aims to do.
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