Summary
This review synthesises evidence on the carbon sequestration potential of terrestrial ecosystems and the substantial carbon stock depletion caused by agricultural conversion. The authors argue that recarbonisation of soil and vegetation represents a critical climate mitigation pathway, with quantified estimates of historic SOC loss (130–135 Pg) and the need to restore ecosystem carbon sinks to offset anthropogenic climate change.
UK applicability
The findings are globally relevant but particularly applicable to UK agriculture and land use policy, where soil carbon restoration through improved management could contribute to net-zero targets. UK upland and wetland ecosystems, and intensively managed arable and grassland systems, represent significant opportunities for SOC recarbonisation aligned with the Climate Change Act framework.
Key measures
Soil organic carbon (SOC) stock depletion (Pg carbon); terrestrial carbon pools (soil, vegetation, peatlands); greenhouse gas emissions (CO2, CH4, N2O); radiative forcing impacts
Outcomes reported
The paper quantifies historic depletion of soil organic carbon stocks (130–135 Pg since agriculture's onset) and discusses recarbonisation of terrestrial biosphere as a climate mitigation strategy. It examines how conversion of natural to managed ecosystems has transformed carbon sinks into greenhouse gas sources.
Topic tags
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