In its document aimed at ensuring a sustainable use of soil, the European Commission pleads for the integration of soil protection in the formulation and implementation of national and Community policies.
Against this background, the European Commission proposed a framework Directive requiring Member States to identify, describe and assess the impact of some sectorial policies on soil degradation process with a view to protect soil functions.
Soil Protection is one of the European Policies to be addressed by GMES. Most particularly the land fast-track services will be a useful instrument to support aims and methods set out by this Thematic Strategy.