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Soil carbon; Agriculture; Climate resilience; Carbon cycle; Organic matter; Carbon sequestration; Land-use changes; Sustainable farming; Soil health; Crop productivity; Soil management; Cover cropping; Reduced tillage; Crop rotation; Agroforestry; Biochar application; Greenhouse gas emissions; Climate change mitigation; Global food security

Introduction

Soil carbon is an essential component of the Earth’s carbon cycle, encompassing the organic carbon stored in the soil through the decomposition of plant and animal material. It plays a pivotal role in sustaining agricultural productivity, nutrient cycling, water retention, and overall soil health [1]. Additionally, soil carbon is a potent factor in mitigating climate change as it influences the balance of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. This short communication examines the significance of soil carbon in agriculture and climate resilience, emphasizing the need for appropriate management strategies to enhance carbon sequestration and promote sustainable farming practices [2].

Importance of soil carbon: Soil carbon serves as a fundamental building block for soil fertility, enhancing its physical, chemical, and biological properties. High levels of soil carbon improve soil structure, porosity, and water-holding capacity, which directly benefit crop growth and resilience to extreme weather events. Furthermore, soil carbon supports beneficial microbial activity, fostering nutrient cycling and promoting the availability of essential elements for plant growth [3-4].

Sources and sinks of soil carbon: Soil carbon has two primary sources: plant residues and soil organic matter. As plants photosynthesize, they absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, converting it into organic carbon through the process of photosynthesis. When plants die or shed leaves, their organic matter becomes part of the soil’s carbon pool. Soil organic matter is composed of a variety of substances, such as dead plant material, root exudates, and decomposed animal remains [5-6].

Carbon in the soil can be sequestered for varying periods, depending on several factors. Microbial decomposition is a significant process that determines the residence time of soil carbon. While some carbon is rapidly recycled back into the atmosphere as CO₂, a portion can remain sequestered in the soil for decades to centuries, contributing to long-term carbon storage [7].

Impact of land-use changes on soil carbon: Human activities, particularly land-use changes, have significantly influenced soil carbon dynamics. Deforestation, urbanization, and intensive agriculture have led to the degradation of soil carbon stocks. Conversion of natural ecosystems to croplands or pastures often results in the release of stored soil carbon into the atmosphere, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. These changes highlight the importance of preserving natural landscapes and adopting sustainable land management practices to protect soil carbon reservoirs [8-10].

Soil carbon sequestration in agricultural systems: Given the critical role of soil carbon in climate resilience, promoting soil carbon sequestration in agricultural systems is crucial. Several practices can enhance soil carbon levels, including:

Cover cropping: Planting cover crops during fallow periods helps reduce soil erosion, increase organic matter inputs, and improve soil carbon levels.

Reduced tillage: Minimizing soil disturbance through reduced tillage or no-till practices helps retain soil carbon by preventing its exposure to the atmosphere.

Crop rotation: Diversifying crop rotations can enhance soil carbon by influencing root exudates and organic matter inputs.

Organic amendments: Adding organic matter, such as compost or manure, enriches soil carbon content and supports microbial activity.

Agroforestry: Integrating trees with agriculture promotes carbon sequestration, as trees capture and store substantial amounts of carbon.

Biochar application: Biochar, a stable form of carbon produced through pyrolysis, can be incorporated into the soil to enhance its carbon storage capacity.

Conclusion

Soil carbon plays a multifaceted role in sustaining agricultural productivity and mitigating climate change. Understanding the significance of soil carbon and implementing effective management practices are crucial steps towards building a resilient and sustainable future. By recognizing soil carbon as a cornerstone of agriculture and climate resilience, we can adopt environmentally friendly farming practices, promote global food security, and contribute to international efforts in combating climate change. Investing in soil carbon conservation is an investment in a better and more sustainable tomorrow.

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