16/01/2026
The SURE-SOIL project (Sustainable Use and Resilience of European Soils) officially kicked off on 16 January 2026, marking the launch of a new European research and innovation initiative focused on addressing soil erosion and promoting sustainable sediment management across Europe.
Funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe programme (Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions) and coordinated by University of Warwick (UK), SURE-SOIL aims to develop integrated, sustainable and resilient solutions to tackle soil degradation and erosion hotspots across Europe. The project adopts a strongly interdisciplinary approach, combining advanced monitoring systems, nature-based solutions, territorial governance frameworks, policy development, and active engagement with local communities and decision-makers.
The kick-off meeting provided an important opportunity for project partners to align on the overall scientific vision, methodological framework and collaborative strategy. Discussions focused on coordination mechanisms, complementarities between work packages, and the need to effectively bridge technical research with governance and participatory processes. Particular emphasis was placed on ensuring the transferability, scalability and long-term impact of project outcomes.
Within SURE-SOIL, the Institute for Research on Innovation and Services for Development of the National Research Council of Italy (Cnr Iriss) contributes expertise in socio-economic analysis, territorial governance, public policy and community engagement. The Institute plays a key role in strengthening the social and territorial dimensions of the project, supporting participatory approaches, stakeholder involvement and policy-oriented outputs aimed at sustainable soil management.
The meeting also highlighted the central importance of dissemination, capacity building and continuous dialogue between research institutions, local communities and public authorities, which will accompany the project throughout its entire duration. Running from 2026 to 2029, SURE-SOIL will deliver scientific results, policy recommendations and decision-support tools designed to foster more sustainable and resilient soil management practices across Europe.
For Cnr Iriss, the scientific coordination of the project is led by Paolo Landri, Scientific Responsible and Acting Director of the Institute.
Further information on the SURE-SOIL project, including details on IRISS activities, is available on the dedicated project page on the Cnr Iriss website.
Per informazioni:
Paolo Landri
CNR - Istituto di Ricerca su Innovazione e Servizi per lo Sviluppo
paolo.landri@cnr.it
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