An indicator for soil physical quality in integrated sustainability assessment models

Safeguarding the quality of natural resources is important for ecological sustainability. One of the most important negative consequences of modern agricultural production is the physical degradation of the soil, resulting in erosion and compaction. Reduced soil physical quality not only has serious effects on crop yields, but also negatively affects the soil functions and is difficult to reverse. This article lists the indicators for the key soil physical properties for implementation in integrated sustainability assessment (ISA) models. A literature review shows that limited attention has been paid to soil physical quality indicators in farm ISA models. Interviews with soil experts indicated that the indicators in ISA models are unlikely to stimulate farmers to practice more sustainable soil management. Nevertheless, the qualitative methods developed to assess soil physical quality directly in the field provide meaningful information that can aid the farmers’ decision-making process. We therefore joined with experts to evaluate these methods and select indicators for soil structure, infiltration capacity and water-holding capacity for arable fields and pastures.