Soil in a city is easy to ignore because roads and buildings cover much of the ground. Yet healthy soil in parks, gardens and open spaces performs important jobs. It holds water after rain, supports trees and provides a home for many small living things.
Good soil can help a city stay cooler and absorb heavy rain. It also supports urban gardens that provide fresh food and community space. Soil can be damaged by pollution, construction or heavy compaction. Roots then receive less air and water. Protecting soil requires planning before construction begins, not only planting flowers after a project ends.