Department of Soil and Environment

Our research seeks knowledge about the interaction between man, soil, plant and the surrounding environment in forest and agricultural landscapes as well as urban environments. We collect, analyse and report data on the state of the environment.

  • Conducts research in soil and environment
  • Collects, analyses, and reports data on the state of the environment
  • Teaches in several of SLU:s undergraduate courses and responsible for two master programmes
Our work
research-picture

Research

We investigate different aspects of soils in order to develop the scientific basis for sustainable land use.

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Environmental Monitoring

We carry out monitoring and assessment in agricultural landscapes, forest and eutrophication.

Student reading outside, photo.

Education

We offer courses at basic and advanced level, as well as PhD training.

About us

Here you will find information about us and about our organisation.

Laboratories

We perform analyses of soil samples and various plant matter.

Collaboration

We collaborate with stakeholders and the public within our research.
News and events

News

  • 2026-02-27

    Cover crops reduce nitrogen leaching in a warmer climate

    Climate change is expected to lead to increased nitrogen leaching in the Nordic countries. In his thesis, David Nimblad Svensson shows that growing cover crops is an important measure, that will become even more important in a future climate to reduce nitrogen leaching and preserve soil fertility.
  • 2026-02-06

    Strong sunlight limits plant diversity and biomass in grasslands

    The sun is the basis for photosynthesis, but not all plants thrive in strong sunlight. Strong sunlight even constrains plant diversity and plant biomass in the world's grasslands, a new study shows. Temperature, precipitation, and atmospheric nitrogen deposition have less impact on plant diversity.
  • 2025-12-10

    Tracking climate shocks to build future resilience

    What can past climate extremes teach us about resilience? Researchers at SLU’s Interdisciplinary Academy (IDA) are studying long-term data on climate, farming, soils, and society to uncover patterns that could help us adapt to future challenges.
  • 2025-11-27

    Heavy machinery jeopardises the promises of conservation agriculture

    Conservation agriculture is a system where the aim is to disturb the soil as little as possible. It involves sowing directly into the residues from the previous crop without tillage. Now researchers are warning that the benefits that are sought may be jeopardized by the use of heavy machinery.

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