Summary
This systematic review examines the current state of scientific literature on urban soil health (63 papers, 2008–2025), revealing significant research gaps and methodological inconsistencies. The authors document an over-emphasis on topsoil chemistry and contamination, insufficient attention to physical and biological soil properties, and shallow sampling profiles that limit understanding of soil profile dynamics and ecosystem service provision. The review calls for more integrated, multidisciplinary approaches that connect soil science with urban planning and human health outcomes.
Regional applicability
United Kingdom urban areas face similar challenges to those documented globally, with potential relevance to UK city planning policy and environmental management frameworks. However, the review does not specifically analyse UK-based research; transferability depends on whether UK studies were included in the 63-paper sample and whether findings on research gaps align with national research funding priorities and regulatory contexts.
Key measures
Geographical distribution of urban soil health studies; land use types studied; sampling depths; frequency of soil health indicators measured (chemical, physical, biological properties); ecosystem services consideration; links to human health outcomes
Outcomes reported
A systematic review of 63 scientific papers (2008–early 2025) identified geographical disparities in urban soil health research, a predominant focus on chemical properties and topsoil, and limited integration of physical, biological, and human health dimensions. The study highlights sampling depth limitations and underutilisation of ecosystem service frameworks in urban soil research.
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