Urban soil science is critical and expanding. Urbanization rates continue to rise, leading to more urban lands and higher human population densities in urban areas. This leads to increased soil disturbance, alteration and movement by humans. Because urban populations depend on these soils for many ecosystem services, the direct connection of human health and urban soil quality is strong.

Soils in urban environments experience unique processes, properties, functions, values, and management. The anthropogenic forming factor often supersedes other soil-forming factors. The unique processes occurring in urban environments can lead to distinct soil physical, chemical, and biological properties. The functions and associated values of urban soils are also unique compared to other ecosystems because they are both highly affected by humans and they are so connected to humans. Management of these soils involves innovative approaches to accommodate the urban environments in which they are found, to support the urban population and to improve urban sustainability.

Our knowledge of urban soils and their formation factors, soil processes, physical, chemical, and biological properties is growing rapidly. Efforts are underway across the globe to classify, map, and interpret these soils. Improved understanding of the specific functions and values of urban soils and the necessary management is also increasing. However, much research and data is still needed as our understanding of the urban environment continues to evolve. The goal of this article collection is to compile contributions from scholars and practitioners from around the world on the topic of urban soils. This collection of papers on new research findings, management approaches, and synthesis of current knowledge will advance the importance of urban soils in creating and maintaining livable, sustainable cities and towns.

We welcome papers that:
• Report on soil formation factors or processes present in urban environments
• Report on physical, chemical, or biological properties of urban soils
• Report on the classification, mapping, or interpretations of urban soils
• Report on the management of urban soils
• Report on the ecological functions or ecosystem services of urban soils
• Review the literature on any specific topics relating to urban soil environments
• Explore future directions or challenges related to urban soil environments

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Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution

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