Risk assessment for soil degradation

Using the risk assessment described below, it is possible to provide a first, coarse indication of the types of soil degradation that may occur at a given location in the Netherlands, and an initial sense of the associated risk. A number of national maps can be used for this, distinguishing between the types of degradation: biological, chemical and physical soil quality. These indications can be linked to the type of land use at a location to estimate whether the identified degradation is likely to affect agriculture, water management and supply, or nature and built-up areas.

Degradation of biological soil quality

The dataset Soil organic matter content at different depths points to underlying soil fertility and biological activity. Low organic matter content can reduce crop yield potential, weaken soil structure, and lower water-holding capacity, making this dataset a useful starting point for risk assessments in the agricultural sector. For risk assessments of nature areas, the dataset provides an indication of the soil biodiversity and vegetation development.

Degradation of chemical soil quality

The dataset Soil ecological capital, unaffected by diffuse soil contamination, indicates how far a soil's ecological functioning is potentially compromised by diffuse chemical contamination. A reduced ecological capital signals a diminished ability to support ecosystems. Another relevant dataset on soil contamination is the Self-cleaning capacity in the topsoil. It shows how well the soil can naturally break down or immobilise pollutants. Both datasets are a useful starting point for risk assessments in nature areas, on agricultural land, of water bodies and water extraction areas, and the built environment.

Crop productivity depends in part on the soil's inherent nutrient supply. Where the dataset Natural supply of nutrients in the soil shows this to be low, it may point to constrained productivity and a greater reliance on external fertiliser input, a useful signal for risk assessments in the agricultural sector. Soil acidity levels, meanwhile, show pH across the soil. Unfavourable pH can limit both crop productivity and nutrient availability, making the dataset relevant to agricultural and nature risk assessments as well.

Degradation of physical soil quality

The dataset Risk of subsurface compaction indicates where reduced water infiltration and root penetration are likely to occur. In agricultural land, this can translate into lower yield potential and a greater risk of waterlogging. Where compacted soils reduce infiltration more broadly, the dataset also points to an increased risk of surface runoff relevant to nature, water management and supply, and built-up areas.

The dataset on Land cover indicates the degree of soil sealing at a location. A high degree of sealing limits infiltration and adds pressure to drainage capacity, which is why this dataset offers a useful starting point for risk assessments in built-up areas, while also shedding light on how sealing shapes the local water balance more broadly, relevant to water management and supply.

Finally, Natural water regulation in the soil reflects its capacity to absorb, store, and release water. Where this capacity is reduced, both flooding and drought sensitivity can increase, making the dataset directly relevant to risk assessments related to nature, and water management and supply.

Visit the hazard pages on pluvial flood risk, drought, saline intrusion, soil erosion, and subsidence for risk assessments on these related hazards.