This International Standard is one of a series providing guidance on the characterization of soils and soil materials in relation to their retention and habitat function and uses. It should be read in conjunction with the other standards in this series. It provides guidance on the choice and evaluation of tests applied for ecotoxicological characterization of soils and soil materials. Recommendations for test strategies with respect to the protection of ground and surface waters and the maintenance of the habitat function of soil are included. The tests recommended represent a minimum test battery that may be accomplished by additional tests, or even be replaced by others, according to the intended uses or protection goals envisaged. The effect values indicated in this International Standard do not refer to regulation, but represent the lowest level at which a response is supposed to result in an adverse effect.