Beweisstück Unterhose geht in die nächste Runde

10/04/2024

Citizen Science Project on Soil Health

The Federal Office for the Environment is now getting underwear dirty. 

With their campaign, the FOEN once again draws the public's attention to a serious and important issue: the health of our soils. They use the website, app guides, and online map that catta developed and used together with Agroscope, the University of Zurich, and in partnership with Altlant Bieri for the project “Beweisstück Unterhose" in 2021. 

Like in 2021, the current FOEN campaign involves burying underwear to learn how healthy and lively the soil is. The unearthed underwear can then be viewed and compared in June 2024. Where have the soil organisms nibbled the most?  

Why are Soil Organisms Important? 

Soils are the foundation of forests, meadows, fields, and offer the greatest biodiversity of all. They shape the landscape, protect against natural hazards, and counteract climate change. Without soil organisms like earthworms, springtails, nematodes, mites, fungi, and bacteria, soils could not produce food or provide clean water. 

Soils and their organisms are of great importance, but their services are little known. Therefore, the new action aims to bring their importance to light. On the weekend of April 20/21, everyone who has access to a piece of land can use a simple method to gather information on soil health. 

Text by: Pia Viviani