Life on Earth depends on the health of the soil. 95% of the world’s food production depends on soil. It is a home to a quarter of all terrestrial species and plays a key role in nutrient cycling, carbon storage and water filtration. Despite the importance of soils to the planet’s ecosystems, their condition in Europe and around the world is deteriorating, with long-term consequences for food security, ecosystem integrity and the services they provide. Urgent action is needed, especially given the long time needed to regenerate and restore soils.