Scotland's Soils
Soils are one of Scotland's greatest assets, and are at the heart of all terrestrial life. Soils are a complex mixture of mineral, organic and inorganic compounds, living organisms, air and water. Soil depth varies from only a few centimetres in mountain soils to several metres in deep peat soils. However, soils are more than the simple sum of their physical, biological and chemical features; they are a vital, active interface between biodiversity, geodiversity, the atmosphere and water and the human environment. Soils are, therefore, recognised as a vital part of our economy, environment and heritage, to be safeguarded for existing and future generations.
Soils - the living skin of the Earth
Although we tend to refer to "the soil", there is in fact a huge diversity of soil types in Scotland. Unlike plants and animals, soils do not exist as distinct types but form a continuous and always evolving pattern over the land surface. Find out more in our Soils booklet from the Scotland's Living Landscapes series.
Soil types
A unique soil classification system has been developed for Scottish soil. Four major soil types account for nearly 90% of land coverage.
Related Links
Soil biodiversity
It might come to a surprise to many, but there is more diversity of life in one teaspoon of soil than in the whole to the Amazonian forest.
Pressures on soils
Local and national threats and pressures soils arising from changing climate and policy
Sustainable management of soils
Effective management of our soils is important for sustainable economic growth