CABI has announced that it is publishing Soil Carbon to coincide with World Soil Day. The publication brings together essential evidence and policy opportunities regarding the global importance of soil carbon as a critical component in the natural system.
Soil Carbon comes at a time when the debate around soil and climate change, ecology and food security is steadily growing. The management of healthy soil is becoming an increasingly important global subject: the United Nations (UN) has announced 2015 will be the International Year of Soils.
The UN notes that soil is fundamental to food, feed, fuel and fibre production, and to healthy ecosystems and populations. The largest store of terrestrial carbon is in the soil and, as such, its preservation may contribute to climate change adaptation and mitigation. A quarter of global biodiversity can be found below ground, is very poorly understood and needs urgent attention. To meet humanity's need for energy, food and water, global soil resources must be enhanced and maintained.
Covering the science and policy background for this critical natural resource, Soil Carbon describes land management options that improve soil carbon status and, therefore, increase the benefits that humans derive from the environment. Developed by an advisory committee of international leaders in soil science, the book is written by renowned global experts. It is the principal output from a SCOPE rapid assessment process project.
Chapter one is available to download. Copies of Soil Carbon can be made available for book review. The book is also available to buy online.
