25 years of SUITMAs: Urban soils - a new research field in soil science. What makes these soils and the interest in these soils so special?

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Since the occurrence of humans, soil has been affected by them. Thus, rural areas have been modified. Currently, urban areas are increasing extensively. They are locations with a high population density that are impacted by settlements and industrial technologies. This paper shows how soils are further discriminated by urbanization. Material and methods A collection of observations and conclusions about the characteristics of natural and urban soils and the discrimination by interpretation of the particularities of discovered soils are presented. This view is enlarged by the specific features of the mode of human action and their effects on soil formation. Results and discussion The effects of humans on soils in rural areas are numerous. They concern effects from soil use, evolving soil fertility and raw material supply by mining. Changes in soil formation occur due to natural factors in the landscapes. Discussions about the nature of soils in urban areas stress the situation of a low soil age, that they become relicts, are highly disturbed, contain artifacts, and are mostly byproducts of human decisions. Based on the specific urban climate, there are zonal soils. Perceptions about what qualifies these soils to be separately designated as urban soils are presented. The new view of the differentiation of artifacts by their origin from heat-treated products allows a more precise definition of soils in urban areas. Soil formation can occur quickly. Conclusion Urban soil research is a wide field for discovering new modes of soil formation and the relationship between humans and soils.