Soil degradation caused by Brazilian Amazon Forest deforestation and local soil carbon storage

Soil degradation caused by Brazilian Amazon Forest deforestation and local soil carbon storage

Xinyang Wang, MLWS 2023

The report explores deforestation's impact on soil carbon in the Brazil Amazon Forest, highlighting the urgent need for climate change solutions. Cropland and pastureland exhibit significant soil carbon losses due to unsustainable land practices and inadequate incentive policies. In contrast, secondary forests demonstrate the capacity to restore soil carbon, recommending their adoption over other land uses. The paper aims to guide local governments in formulating effective incentive policies, providing research directions for scientists, and assisting farmers in sustainable land management without compromising their interests. It proposes mitigation strategies to curb soil carbon loss from improper land management and expansion. Long-term commitment and concerted efforts are deemed essential to prevent soil carbon loss, emphasizing the importance of sustained dedication toward this goal.