Summary
This review synthesises evidence on the carbon sequestration potential of terrestrial ecosystems, documenting substantial historical losses of soil and vegetation carbon stocks following agricultural conversion circa 8000 BC. The authors argue that recarbonisation of degraded terrestrial biosphere—particularly soil organic carbon restoration—represents a critical strategy for climate change mitigation whilst enhancing ecosystem services. The work positions soil carbon dynamics at the intersection of climate action and land management.
UK applicability
UK arable and grassland soils have undergone significant organic matter depletion since industrialisation; the recarbonisation principles outlined are directly applicable to UK farming policy and soil health initiatives, particularly in the context of the Environmental Land Management schemes and net-zero commitments.
Key measures
Soil organic carbon (SOC) stock depletion (Pg; megatonnes); terrestrial carbon stock depletion; greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O); radiative forcing
Outcomes reported
The paper quantifies historical depletion of soil organic carbon stocks (130–135 Pg since agriculture's onset) and discusses recarbonisation of terrestrial ecosystems as a mitigation strategy for anthropogenic climate change. It examines the role of soil and vegetation carbon stocks in moderating atmospheric CO₂ concentrations.
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