Análisis y valoración de los sistemas de evaluación de suelos en España. Evolución, tendencias actuales y perspectivas futuras

Abstract

Land Evaluation in Spain -within the context of Applied Edaphology- experienced a late development and, above all, its evolution has been highly dependent on the most significant international methodologies: the Land Capability Classification, the parametric system of Riquier, Bramao and Cornet, and the evaluation procedures established by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. In this paper we analyse the main methodological characteristics of these evaluation systems and the advantages and drawbacks involved in their application. We argue whether these methodologies are still valid and we point out the need to set up a proper methodological frame fitted for the biophysical traits of our country. Soil maps from the National Plan of Environmental Cartography evidence that situation and they include the Capability and Vulnerability indexes as innovator methodological elements in the assessment of the soil as a natural resource.