The European Union's new soil monitoring directive, adopted in late 2025, aims to ensure healthy soils by 2050 through a comprehensive approach that includes environmental DNA analysis. Member states are required to assess soil biodiversity every six years, integrating various monitoring methods to better understand soil health and its implications for agriculture and public policy.

• 01The EU directive mandates soil biodiversity assessments every six years using environmental DNA.
• 02France's experience in soil quality monitoring serves as a benchmark for the directive's implementation.
• 03A combination of monitoring methods is essential for accurate interpretation of soil health.
• 04The directive allows member states to supplement mandatory indicators with additional biological measures.
• 05Understanding soil biodiversity is crucial for effective public policy and sustainable land management.

The directive's implementation will enhance soil health monitoring, which is crucial for sustainable agriculture and environmental management. Improved soil health can lead to better crop yields and reduced environmental degradation.