“83% of soils in the EU contain pesticide residues; 21% of agricultural soils are contaminated with cadmium concentrations above the limit for drinking water, and 6% have a heavy metal content that is potentially unsafe for food production.”

“83% of EU soils with residual pesticides; 21% of agricultural soils with cadmium concentrations above the limit for drinking water; and 6% with heavy metal content potentially unsafe for food production.”

Caring for soil is caring for life. Ensure 75% of soils are healthy by 2030 for food, people, nature and climate. European Commission, Report of the Mission board for Soil health and food, Publications Office, 2020, p. 8