In Germany, the key provisions are set out in the Federal Soil Protection Act and the Federal Soil Protection Ordinance. Next to numerous sector-specific provisions of EU law relevant for soil protection, the EU Soil Monitoring Law, adopted in December 2025, is of particular significance. Provisions relevant to soil protection can also be found in international law.
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.
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.
