Chapter 1. Setting the scene

Objectives

The overall objective of this report is to perform a global assessment of the status of soil pollution including its regional trends following a country-driven process in combination with a review of the state-of-the-art scientific information.

In particular, this report aims to:

• - present the state-of-the-science of global soil pollution, its drivers, ongoing responses and the gaps to fully address soil pollution.
• - raise awareness of all stakeholders of the serious problem of soil pollution and its consequences for ecosystems, human health and well-being.
• - foster a deeper understanding of soil pollution sources and mechanisms by countries, and take action to prevent, better manage, reduce soil pollution, and remediate polluted soils.