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EU Missions under Horizon Europe

Long-Term Soil Degradation Drivers

Funds one €7M research project that uses historical evidence to explain soil degradation and improve future soil-health decisions.

ScheduledEuropean CommissionEU

Soil datasets usually cover only the last few decades, yet degradation has been shaped by human activity over centuries and millennia. This topic funds research that reconstructs those longer histories so policymakers, land managers and communities can make better decisions about future soil health.

Projects can combine historical documents and records, archaeological evidence, sediment archives,

A two-stage Research and Innovation Action studying soil degradation over centuries to millennia and using that evidence to improve future soil-health projections and management. Projects should combine historical records, archaeology, sediment and fossil-soil archives, samples and proxy methods; integrate evidence across pedo-climatic regions with models and digital tools; examine natural, socio-economic and cultural drivers and consequences; and involve citizens and stakeholders in data collection, analysis and awareness. Technology development above TRL 4 is outside scope.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.One-off
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.8 Apr 2027
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.22 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€7M

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: HORIZON-MISS-2027-05-SOIL-06-TWO-STAGESource: ec.europa.eu