The Lithuanian Community of Practice: Turning Marginal Land into Opportunities for Soil Health

In Lithuania, the SoilValues Community of Practice is exploring how marginal land can be managed more sustainably through poplar cultivation. Bringing together landowners, researchers, advisors, wastewater treatment and biomass energy operators, and carbon project developers, the community is working to develop a business model that combines improved soil management with new economic opportunities. In this video, the Lithuanian Community of Practice explores how poplar plantations can contribute to soil health while creating value through timber, biomass and carbon credits. The approach also investigates the potential to reuse nutrients recovered from wastewater treatment and biomass combustion, reducing reliance on mineral fertilisers while supporting tree growth. Soil monitoring, suitable planting techniques and responsible nutrient management are essential to assess the environmental benefits and ensure the model's long-term viability. Looking ahead, the community is examining how reliable carbon credit frameworks, investment opportunities and collaboration across the value chain can encourage landowners to adopt these practices and support the development of a more sustainable regional bioeconomy. 🎥 Watch this video to discover how the Lithuanian Community of Practice is exploring new ways to improve soil health and create value from marginal land.