GreekDescription
The Greek Urban Soil Living Lab focuses on restoring degraded soils across Kozani and Ptolemaida by addressing key challenges such as soil sealing, compaction, low organic matter, and the loss of biodiversity. Across 14 diverse urban and peri-urban sites, squares, playgrounds, community gardens, farms, drainage channels, and educational spaces, the LL tests practical solutions including compost-based restoration, permeable surfaces, phytostabilisation, vertical gardening, and community-led urban farming. The Living Lab integrates real-life experimentation with citizen engagement, demonstrating sustainable soil management approaches that support healthier urban ecosystems, enhance climate resilience, and promote long-term behavioural change through education and co-creation.
Challenges
Soil sealing/compaction/erosion, low soil fertility, lack of topsoil, possible contamination, limited soil volume, biodiversity loss
Possible Solutions
Native vegetation, urban farming, raised beds, community gardens, soil remediation, organic amendments (compost/biochar), phytostabilization, vertical gardening, educational activities, sustainable land use
