Industrial activities, pollution, and exploitation are degrading the quality of soil located in and around European cities, according to a report released by the European Environment Agency (EEA) on Thursday.

As a result, efficient use of soils in urban areas is needed to make sure this valuable limited resource helps European cities remain livable and able to deal with challenges like climate change, said the report.

The report suggested that policies and regulations for urban areas, including those that apply to spatial planning, should ensure that soils are protected, based on "a sound understanding of the functions and values of soils."

In addition to its ecological and economic benefits, the soil's value to fulfill human needs should also be considered.

The report also said soil management, including its reuse and recycling, should be an integral part of city planning and construction projects.

High-quality soil within urbanized areas should be protected for possible agricultural use, the report emphasized.

Moreover, more information and knowledge is needed for city planners, to raise awareness of the value of soil towards building a green economy, supportive of human well-being and ecosystem resilience, said the report.

A local or place-based approach to soil use and management should be adopted, making the most of an area's resources, urged the report.