The energy waves generated by a hammer strike provide information that can be translated into data about soil health. Image Credit: Earth Rover Program.
EnvironmentTechnology The WorldNew Technology Aims to Give Farmers Real-Time Insights Into Soil Health
Global scientists launched a new programme in 2026 to track soil health using low-cost seismic technology, helping farmers improve crop productivity while protecting ecosystems and climate stability.
“If we don’t have soil, then we don’t have the wonderful aboveground ecosystems that the vast majority of us enjoy so much,” said Professor Simon Jeffery, soil ecologist at Harper Adams University and programme co-founder.
The Earth Rover initiative uses hammer-generated seismic waves and sensors to quickly and cost-effectively analyse soil structure, compaction, and carbon content, with technology costs already reduced by 100-fold to around £100. Trials across four continents aim to support farmers with real-time data, guide irrigation and fertiliser use, and reduce unnecessary ploughing that releases stored carbon. Scientists also plan to develop smartphone-based “soilcasts” that combine artificial intelligence with local knowledge to strengthen food security and sustainable land management worldwide.
