last updated 21st October 05
By 4ecotips

Protection essential for future generations.

The European Soils Atlas launched by the Joint Research Council povides a comprehensive characterisation of Europe's soil resources.

The UK's Cranfield University at Silsoe, through the National Soil Resources Institute (NSRI), has been closely connected with the European Soil Bureau and Joint Research Centre for many years. Cranfield staff have been directly involved in the JRC's work on the soil thematic strategy including the mapping of erosion risk and soil organic carbon reserves across Europe.

Professor Mark Kibblewhite, director of NSRI and chairman of the European Soil Bureau Network (ESBN), explains: "The ESBN is a network of European soil survey organizations and the Atlas is in part a celebration of their work in the characterisation of Europe's soil resources. We must not forget however that the job is only just begun.

"There are good and pressing reasons for mapping soils at very much greater resolution to support decision making at farm and river catchment scale, and for establishing rigorously constructed monitoring networks to determine the condition of our soils.

"To achieve these objectives Europe will need a continuing supply of qualified, experienced soil scientists. This is a major challenge and one of the reasons for Cranfield setting out to establish two new soil-based Masters programmes in Soil Management and Urban Soils.

"To attract young scientists to our subject, we must first enthuse them at an early stage and I see the Atlas helping do just that."

The Soil Atlas is the result of a collective effort by more than 40 national soil surveys and soil science institutions cooperating across Europe. Soil resources across Europe are limited and need to be protected for future generations. The Soil Atlas uses specific maps to highlight threats such as erosion, the decline of organic matter and soil sealing.

Professor Mark Kibblewhite was recently named as the leading environmental scientist in Country Life Magazine's Top 100 Powerful People in the Country Side. He is dedicated to championing the sustainable management of soil. He has a multidisciplinary background, grounded in environmental chemistry and soil science, complemented by high level expertise in policy development, regulation and business economics.