# Underwear as a Soil Health Indicator A Swiss citizen science project used an unconventional method to measure soil quality. - **Source:** [Popular Science](https://brifing.si/source/cc3d313a-759c-4802-b881-fc8585f35ef9) - **Published:** 2026-08-26 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/b8930d49-9ac2-4cc7-933c-a57ecb96b665 ## An Unusual Scientific Experiment In 2021, the University of Zurich and Agroscope research center launched the 'Proof by Underpants' project. 1,000 volunteers buried cotton underwear and tea bags at selected locations across Switzerland. After two months, samples were excavated and analyzed based on decomposition levels. This method aims to provide an alternative to traditional sensor technologies. ## Mapping Soil Health Published in Plants, People, Planet journal, the study revealed Switzerland's first citizen-science-based soil health map. Data showed private gardens had the highest biological activity, while agricultural lands ranked moderately. Manicured lawns exhibited the lowest organic matter content, highlighting the impact of land management practices. ## Crucial for Microbial Life Researcher Marcel van der Heijden emphasizes healthy soil's vital role for bacteria, fungi, and earthworms. Rapid decomposition areas indicate high organic matter content that enhances plant productivity. However, researchers caution that excessive nutrients can disrupt natural balances in forests and over-fertilized gardens. ## Home Gardens Win Home gardens demonstrated the fastest decomposition rates and highest microbial diversity. Conversely, over-fertilized gardens showed nutrient imbalances. Co-author Franz Bender stresses the importance of maintaining optimal organic matter levels for ecological balance. ## Boosting Agricultural Productivity The project provides valuable data for improving soil quality in farmlands. Rapid decomposition areas facilitate better nutrient absorption by crops. Researchers note that different ecosystems require tailored approaches, as ideal conditions vary across environments. ## Power of Citizen Science With 1,000 participants collecting data, the project demonstrates public engagement's value in scientific research. Using simple materials, it raised awareness about soil health. Findings could influence local governments' land-use policies and sustainable farming practices. ## Sustainable Land Management The study confirms that preserving soil organisms is critical for food security and climate resilience. Organic-rich soils enhance carbon sequestration, contributing to climate change mitigation. These insights could guide policymakers in developing sustainable agricultural strategies. ## Science Meets Fun The underwear method made complex scientific processes accessible through an engaging citizen experiment. Researchers highlight how creative approaches can effectively raise environmental awareness. The project's success suggests potential for global adaptation in soil health monitoring. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.popsci.com/environment/bury-underwear-soil-health/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._