What role does soil play in the carbon cycle?

Soil plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle as it acts as a significant reservoir for carbon storage and is vital for plant growth. Through processes such as photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into organic matter. When plants shed leaves, roots, or die, this organic material enters the soil, where it is broken down by microbes. These microorganisms decompose the organic matter, releasing carbon back into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide or methane, or storing it in soil organic matter over time.

The ability of soil to store carbon is essential for regulating atmospheric carbon levels, making it a key player in mitigating climate change. Healthy soils that are rich in organic matter can thus serve as effective carbon sinks, improving soil fertility and supporting diverse ecosystems. This interconnectedness highlights how soil not only influences carbon dynamics but also supports agricultural productivity and ecosystem health.