Knowing soils in order to protect them: the SOLPYR project as an example of soil research, impact assessment, and public awareness of their importance in sensitive mountain areas.

Soil is an essential natural system, forming the foundation and refuge of terrestrial life, regulating key biogeochemical cycles, and acting as a reservoir for water and gases. Despite its fundamental importance, soil (a non-renewable resource on human timescales) remains largely overlooked, with significant gaps in its study, identification, and proper characterization across many European territories. 
Mountain areas provide essential ecosystem services to surrounding societies, functioning as water towers, system regulators, and biodiversity refuges. However, these sensitive environments face increasing threats from anthropogenic pressures (tourism, land-use change, urbanization) and Climate Change (droughts, reduced snow cover, and extreme rainfall events).
The SOLPYR project aims to improve knowledge of Pyrenean soils, using this mountain range as a representative study area for understanding pressures and challenges affecting mountain environments. The ultimate goal is to design, analyse, and implement soil protection measures that ensure soil resilience and the sustained provision of soil-based resources, as a strategy for adaptation to Global Change. 
The project is structured around four main actions: (i) the creation of a comprehensive soil catalogue and soil maps of the Pyrenees at 1:400,000 scale through the compilation and harmonization of existing data, complemented by field identification and characterization, and delineation using GIS, based on standardized and replicable methodologies; (ii) the study, assessment, and quantification of soil degradation in mountain environments (pilot areas and mountain trails), along with the establishment of best practices for soil use and restoration; (iii) raising awareness and promoting public understanding of the natural value of soils, the processes driving their degradation, and the need for their conservation through sensitization campaigns, soil-themed itineraries, and specialized training courses; and (iv) fostering cooperation among stakeholders and institutions with a shared interest in the conservation, preservation, and sustainable use and management of Pyrenean soils through a robust governance framework
A key outcome of the project will be the development of a Cross-border Action Plan for Pyrenean soils, establishing priorities and strategic guidelines for soil protection in alignment with the European Union’s 2030 soil protection strategy. Although still in its early stages of implementation, the SOLPYR project represents a strong example of transboundary and interdisciplinary collaboration for soil protection. Beyond contributing substantially to scientific knowledge, its outcomes provide a robust foundation for the study, assessment, and management of sensitive mountain environments worldwide. By establishing networks that connect scientific communities, land managers, and territorial stakeholders, the project offers a valuable framework for adaptation to Global Change.
Acknowledgements: This research project was supported by the SOLPYR (POCTEFA 2021-2027 (EFA045/01)) project funded by Interreg Poctefa and European Union.