As urban populations continue to rise, the importance of soils in cities becomes increasingly clear. This book highlights the critical role of urban soils and emphasizes the need for their sustainable management within the urban ecosystem. Edited for the International Union of Soil Sciences, it represents the collaborative efforts of the SUITMA working group. Thirty-four concise contributions explore essential aspects of urban soils, addressing challenges and issues they face. The authors cover the fundamentals of soil science in anthropized environments, detailing the composition, properties, functions, and evolution of urban soils, along with their classification and mapping. The book includes case studies of urban soil surveys from the US, Poland, Germany, and Russia. It discusses management strategies for urban soils, focusing on brownfields, soil sealing, and urban agriculture. A dedicated chapter examines the ecosystem services provided by urban soils, such as water quality management, carbon and phosphorus storage, and biodiversity support, even in contaminated areas. This work aims to broaden our understanding of urban soils and their significance for human well-being, serving as a valuable resource for city planners and managers to enhance the quality of life for citizens.
