Bridging science and community to improve our soils
BENCHMARKS promotes the integration of citizen science into soil health assessments, combining innovative research with local knowledge to enhance data collection. By empowering citizens to become active soil stewards, we foster a deeper connection to the environment. Our Citizen Science Tools Repository makes it easy for communities to discover the best methods for measuring soil health. Through our Soil Blitz events, we raise awareness and inspire action, helping communities take charge of their local soil health.
Citizen Science Tools Repository for Soil Health
The Citizen Science Tools Repository helps citizens find the most suitable tool to measure soil health. Whether you are an NGO, a business or a school, you can start collecting data on soil health with a wide range of tools to pick from —from user-friendly apps and fun experiments using tea bags to sophisticated data collection methods.
Soil Blitz: engaging communities to care for our soils
A Soil Blitz is a hands-on, community-driven event that engages citizens in assessing soil health using simple citizen science methods. Participants test key soil parameters like texture, infiltration rate, earthworm density, and vegetation cover. They collect data through the Soil Health Watch tool and submit it online, contributing to a snapshot of soil health in their region.
Beyond gathering valuable data, Soil Blitzes raise awareness about the importance of soil health and the human impact on it. After the event, participants receive results and practical actions for improving soil health. BENCHMARKS partner Earthwatch Europe organises these events, which focus on different land uses each year—urban, agricultural, and forestry landscapes. Soil Blitzes have taken place across Europe, fostering public engagement and education on soil sustainability.
Soil Blitz in Austria
We’re partnering with the Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES) to bring Soil Blitz into Austrian schools. As part of the Citizen Science Award 2025, classes are independently measuring local soil health with easy-to-use kits and learning resources provided by EarthWatch Europe. Their results, which are recorded in an app will be analysed as part of BENCHMARKS, helping compare soil health across countries.
“It is really lovely to see how the children and young people are exploring the topic of soil health. Their hands are dirty, they are eagerly searching for earthworms, and the infiltration ring is being hammered into the ground with much enthusiam. Seeing this commitment brings pure joy!”
Sophia Götzinger, AGES
