Chair of Soil Science
The Chair of Soil Science promotes sustainable development through education, knowledge transfer, and research and development activities. By integrating soil science, agrochemistry, agriculture, agroecology, and environmental protection, we offer higher education at all levels and provide professional training for the sector. Additionally, we actively work to raise public awareness of soil science. Our research includes both fundamental studies and applied research in collaboration with industry partners.
We generate and share knowledge for the sustainable use and protection of soils, committing to the enhancement of higher education quality and the advancement of scientific innovation. Through these efforts, we ensure the future of the soil science field and support the goals of sustainable development.
Studies
The studies cover topics in soil science, environmental protection, and precision agriculture, providing a scientific and practical foundation for sustainable land use at both bachelor's and master's levels.
Research
Research and development activities focus on improving soil quality in agroecosystems for bioeconomy and sustainable development. Studies cover soil chemistry, carbon farming, and soil protection. We conduct field trials and applied research in collaboration with agricultural producers and organizations.
Soil Museum
The Soil Museum compiles information on soil properties, development, and distribution, supporting research and education.
Soil Day
Soil and life are inseparably connected, and responsible soil management requires awareness and continuous updating of knowledge.
Soil of the Year
The Soil of the Year is selected in Estonia to raise public awareness of the diversity of soils found in the country, highlighting their appearance, properties, and suitability for different uses.
Estonian Soil Science Society
In the Estonian Soil Science Society, enthusiasts of soil science have come together.
C and NPK Calculators
Calculators are tools that help assess soil carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content. They support fertilization planning, soil fertility management, and sustainable agriculture.
Projects
Link avaneb uuel vahelehel Development and updating of the digital soil mapping concept
The project's goal is to create a large-scale digital soil map and update the existing one to improve the accuracy of soil information and support sustainable land use.
Link avaneb uuel vahelehel Enhancing soil biodiversity to ensure stable and resilient European agroecosystems
The project focuses on increasing soil biodiversity in European agroecosystems to improve their stability and resilience, reduce the use of external inputs, and enhance crop yields.
Link avaneb uuel vahelehel Climate-conscious and sustainable management of agricultural soils
The project focuses on climate-conscious and sustainable management of agricultural soils to support environmentally friendly farming, maintain soil fertility, and adapt to climate change.
TRANSborder cooperation for circular soil-less FARMing systems - TransFarm
In March 2023, the TransFarm project (TRANSborder cooperation for circular soil-less FARMing systems) was launched with the participation of the Estonian University of Life Sciences. The project focus
Head of the Department
Alar Astover
Tenured Professor in Soil Science (Head of the Chair)
Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Chair of Soil Science
+372 7313546
+372 7313546Estonian University of Life Sciences
Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 5, Tartu 51006, D-block, 1st floor
