Summary
This review synthesises evidence on the carbon sequestration potential of terrestrial ecosystems and the historic depletion of soil and vegetation carbon stocks following agricultural intensification since 8000 BC. The authors estimate that soil organic carbon has been depleted by 130–135 Pg and argue that recarbonisation of terrestrial biosphere—through improved soil and vegetation management—represents a critical mitigation strategy for anthropogenic climate change whilst enhancing broader ecosystem services. The paper emphasises the fundamental link between soil carbon stocks and atmospheric CO₂ concentration.
UK applicability
The findings are directly applicable to UK agricultural policy and practice, particularly regarding soil carbon sequestration targets in England's environmental land management schemes and Scotland's climate change commitments. UK soils, notably those historically managed under intensive arable and grassland systems, may be candidates for recarbonisation strategies, though implementation will require farm-level adaptation within the UK's temperate climate and regulatory context.
Key measures
Soil organic carbon (SOC) stock depletion (Pg, petagrams); atmospheric CO₂, CH₄, and N₂O concentrations; radiative forcing; ecosystem carbon sequestration potential
Outcomes reported
The paper quantifies the depletion of soil organic carbon stocks since agricultural onset (130–135 Pg) and evaluates the potential for terrestrial ecosystem recarbonisation as a climate mitigation strategy. It examines how conversion of natural to managed ecosystems (agroecosystems, urban lands, mined lands) has depleted ecosystem carbon stocks and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
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