Soil Monitoring Action Plan
Read the full reportThe report establishes a systematic approach to soil monitoring in Scotland, highlighting the need to address data gaps and variability in soil organic matter across different land uses. While no significant changes in soil carbon stocks have been observed in recent decades, the report highlights the key role of peatland restoration in enhancing carbon storage. It also emphasises the need for empirical evidence to assess the impact of agricultural intensification on greenhouse gas emissions and the importance of monitoring soil pH and nutrient levels.
The report establishes a systematic approach to soil monitoring in Scotland, identifying data needs and gaps.
The report highlights that there is no significant evidence of changes in soil carbon stocks over recent decades, but it emphasises the importance of peatland restoration for increasing soil carbon storage.
It addresses the variability in soil organic matter across different land uses and the need for systematic data to monitor these changes.
The report discusses the impact of agricultural intensification on greenhouse gas emissions from soils and the need for empirical evidence and modeling to predict future trends.
It outlines the historical changes in soil pH due to agricultural practices and atmospheric deposition, along with the importance of monitoring soil nutrient levels.
It explores the impacts of soil changes on the environment, society, and economy.
Recommendations for policy implementation
- Establishing a systematic, coordinated soil monitoring network across Scotland to provide data necessary for sustainable soil management.
- Linking soil monitoring efforts with broader environmental policies such as the Water Framework Directive and Floods Directive.
- Identifying and prioritising soil monitoring needs based on user requirements and addressing gaps in current monitoring activities.