This page presents how soil partnerships are connected across global, European, and subregional levels, and how key European programmes, strategies, and policy frameworks support them.
Global Soil Partnership (2012)
Established in 2012, the GSP aims to raise the profile of soils within the global agenda and advance sustainable soil management practices. Hosted by FAO, the Partnership works to enhance soil governance to secure productive soils for food security, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and sustainable development worldwide.
European Soil Partnership (2013)
The ESP promotes the exchange of knowledge and technologies on soils, their sustainable management, and monitoring, with the aim of improving soil functioning for food security, ecosystem services, and climate change mitigation. Across Europe, various regional networks contribute to this work, focusing on research, conservation agriculture, soil awareness, and stakeholder engagement.
The main objectives of the ESP are to:
a) support the implementation of the Six Action Areas of the Global Soil Partnership (GSP);
b) address region-specific priorities linked to the Global Soil Protection Agenda;
c) support European soil-related initiatives through transparent communication and shared outcomes.
Given the wide geographic scope of the European Soil Partnership, several Subregional Partnerships have been established, each with its own structure and governance. Not all ESP member countries currently participate in a Subregional Partnership.
© Thünen-Institute/Marc Scherstjanoi, Julia von Guilleaume
Alpine Subregional Soil Partnership (AlpSP)
The partnership was established in 2017 within the EU Alpine Space project Links4Soils (2016–2020) and aims to connect soil experts with users of soil knowledge, including public authorities, practitioners, and NGOs. The Subregional Partnership promotes the integration of soil protection into land management practices and strengthens cooperation across the Alpine region.
Western Balkan Subregional Soil Partnership (WBSP)
The Partnership was prepared by a Regional Expert Advisory Working Group on Soil Management and formally launched in November 2022 in Budva, Montenegro, where Ministers of Agriculture and Heads of Delegation from South-Eastern Europe signed the Memorandum of Understanding.
Pyrenean Subregional SoilPartnership (ASPir)
The Partnership was established on 27 May 2021 to align policies and actions related to soils in the Pyrenees, while promoting soil conservation, carbon sequestration, and initiatives on soil health. At the time of its establishment, the partnership brought together 20 partners.
Eurasian Subregional Soil Partnership (EASP)
The partnership was launched during the International Conference on the Eurasian Food Security Network and the Eurasian Soil Partnership, held in Moscow in November 2013. The Subregional Partnership operates within the framework of the FAO’s Global Soil Partnership and the European Soil Partnership.
European Strategies, Programmes & Policies
Funding programmes
Interreg Alpine Space
Interreg is a series of programmes that promote cohesion between regions within and outside the European Union. The Interreg Alpine Space programme co-finances and supports cooperation projects across the borders of seven Alpine countries. Since its creation in 2000, it tackles common challenges and improves the quality of life of the 80 million inhabitants of the Alpine region. Within the current period 2021-2027, we are at the forefront of the transition to a unique, carbon-neutral, and climate-resilient European territory: the Alpine Region
Alpine strategies & governance
Alpine Convention
The Alpine Convention promotes sustainable development in the Alps and was the first international treaty dedicated to the protection and sustainable development of an entire mountain range. In 2026, the Convention will mark the 35th anniversary of its signing, which established a shared international commitment to protect the Alpine region.
Eusalp
The European Union Strategy for the Alpine Region (EUSALP) brings together seven countries and 48 regions to address common challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, economic development, and sustainable mobility. By fostering cross-border cooperation, innovative approaches, and a strong focus on sustainability, EUSALP contributes to a more resilient, competitive, and greener future for the Alpine region.
EU missions & innovation
EU Missions are large-scale initiatives under Horizon Europe that set clear, time-bound objectives to address major societal challenges, including climate change, cancer, ocean restoration, soil health, and the transition to climate-neutral and smart cities. By bringing together researchers, policymakers, citizens, and other stakeholders, EU Missions mobilise knowledge and resources to foster innovation and deliver tangible solutions for society. In particular, the EU Mission: A Soil Deal for Europe aims to establish 100 living labs and lighthouses to lead the transition towards healthy soils by 2030.
Soil Monitoring Law (2025)
Soil Monitoring Law (2025)
The directive addresses all major forms of soil degradation, including erosion, compaction, loss of organic soil carbon and biodiversity, as well as contamination and soil sealing.
It applies to all soils across forests, agricultural land, urban areas, and beyond providing a common legal framework to support the achievement of healthy soils by 2050.
To this end, the Directive:
– requires Member States to monitor and assess soil health;
– supports farmers and soil managers in improving soil health and resilience;
– addresses the long-standing challenge of contaminated sites in the EU;
– strengthens knowledge on soil health, contributing to the EU’s climate and biodiversity objectives, as well as competitiveness and food security.