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Project

Effects of soil degradation on soil carbon storage and persistence in forests

European and Flemish climate-change policies aim to enhance carbon (C) storage in soils of conservation areas, e.g., in forests. Soil degradation however may impact C persistence in soils, and therefore the sustainability of this policy effort, by making soil C stocks more vulnerable to climatic anomalies, shocks, and disturbances. One major soil degradation process in forests is soil acidification. It has been shown to affect soil C persistence non-linearly, but processes behind this effect remain elusive and poorly quantified. In this project, we study the molecular composition of functional soil organic matter fractions of forest soils along a gradient of perturbation intensity, to evaluate and quantify how soil degradation levels affect C cycle dynamics and persistence mechanisms. Moreover, we will evaluate the role of soil fauna as a quick-response indicator for imminent changes in soil C persistence, and evaluate the impact of management interventions. Finally, we will translate the process-based insights obtained in the project into a decision-support framework for cost-effective and climate-smart nature management.
Date:28 Oct 2021 →  21 Apr 2022
Keywords:carbon, soil, forest
Disciplines:Carbon sequestration science, Land capability and soil degradation
Project type:PhD project