**2.2 How does compost influence soil properties and plant growth?**

Numerous publications provide evidence on the multiple benefits of compost application to soil. Effects range from soil stabilization and amelioration to phyto-sanitary impacts of mature compost. Feedstock, compost maturity and compost quality can influence intensity and degree of effects on soil physical, chemical and biological properties. Application may trigger short-term improvements such as increasing microbial activity. Long-term effects on soil properties could be achieved by preservation and increase of the stable SOM pool (Amlinger et al., 2007).
