In recent decades, the important role of biodiversity for food security has been primarily related to the above-ground. Soil biodiversity, especially outside agriculture and forestry, has been largely overlooked. Understanding the complex interplay between soil biodiversity and ecosystem functions (EF) and services (ES) in the various land uses of geoclimatic regions remains a major challenge. Setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timely (SMART) targets for soil biodiversity is therefore imperative. We need to understand the relationships between soil biodiversity components (bacteria, archaea, fungi, etc.) and soil biodiversity (EF/ES) and consider the importance of dominant phylotypes in maintaining functions. Climate change further complicates this scenario by affecting biodiversity resilience and adaptation. Initiatives such as BIOservicES seek to fill these gaps by investigating the contributions of soil organisms to EF/ES, identifying the drivers of change and placing an economic value on their services. This knowledge will inform policymaking and help to set SMART targets for biodiversity and integrate soil biodiversity into land management strategies. Recognizing the importance of soil health can also influence the updating of legislation at EU and national level.
Regional Coordination Alpine Space, Task leader WP2.6
