Embedding soil quality in the planning and management of land use

Despite major changes in land use, the linkage between land use and soil type remains obviously recognizable (and strongly predictable). Soil management regimes, historical land use and geographical situation determine soil properties, but the influence of farming systems on the soil biodiversity has also been clearly observed. Less than 20% of the arable farming system and pastures is situated on unsuitable soil, but over 40% of the forestry is situated on unsuitable soil. Thus, careful planning of the most appropriate local land use would highly benefit from increased yield and ecological soil sustainability. Region-specific environmental policy offers such stimulating possibilities to match occurring soil quality with the demanded land use.