Soil processes as a basis for targeting carbon sequestration measures in mineral agricultural soils

HiiletIn project produces new knowledge on the processes of carbon in various mineral soils under diverse environmental conditions by applying interdisciplinary methods novel in soil science. Practical pilot studies provide information on the feasibility of different conventional as well as innovative actions in field scale. In the project, an estimate of the total carbon sequestration potential of cultivated mineral soils of Finland is calculated and information on the regions most potential for carbon sequestration is provided. Policy instruments for increasing soil carbon sinks cost-effectively are identified through economic analysis. Furthermore, the project produces in-depth information on chemical properties of various organic soil amendments to understand their behavior in contrasting soils. The collected data enables estimation of the effectivity of different carbon sequestration actions in different field soils. Based on this information, the management operations can be directed optimally to maximize positive climatic effects economically viably.