What people can do

In some cases soil properties may return naturally to their normal range of values once the threat is removed — the main question being the amount of time required. In other cases the soil will not return to its original condition but could, under management, be converted into some other desirable state.

Strategies for approaching point sources of pollution require both prevention and remediation of soil and groundwater contamination. Prevention can be focused on reducing industrial emissions and the amount of generated waste, as well as soil and groundwater protection.

There are various technologies available for treating contaminated land, such as soil excavation, washing and disposal. These methods, however, are extremely expensive. Some new technologies for treating soil pollutants with immobilising additives are more cost-effective.

Clean-up costs are often so high that the only practical approach is for the owner of the polluted property to share the cost with society. At the same time, maximum technical, financial and legislative resources must be directed towards preventing new pollution.

Policy, legislation and international cooperation
Many problems arising across national borders, such as acidification or pollution by harmful substances disseminated by air, can be solved only through the joint efforts of all countries concerned. Various activities to this end are underway in Europe.

National and international efforts to protect the soil need to conform to certain guidelines:

• Emphasis on soil protection should move from remedial and reactive strategies to preventive and pro-active strategies.

• Emphasis should be placed on protecting soil functions rather than uses.

• Land use should correspond to the suitability of its soil.

• Past damages need to be repaired, but preventive measures also need to be employed.