Why Policy Regulation Alone Is Not Enough

Even robust policy frameworks face structural constraints. The enforcement of soil-related regulations and standards varies across administrative, geographic, and institutional contexts, while economic pressures shape land-use decisions. At the same time, soil degradation often occurs gradually and remains visually inconspicuous, and competing priorities influence political attention. For example, despite increasing European monitoring effects which showed increased awareness of the key role of functioning soils, land take and soil sealing continue in many European regions (European Environment Agency, 2023). This does not necessarily indicate policy failure, but highlights that regulation operates alongside professional decisions, incentives, awareness, and social values.