STC Webinar

On October 29, the Scientific and Technical Committee of the international “4 per 1000” Initiative organized a 7th seminar entitled “ Balancing Soil Carbon Gains and Nitrous Oxide Emissions: Evaluating the Net Impact of Natural Climate Solutions in Croplands (Soil Carbon Science)”.

Soil-based natural climate solutions (NCS) can contribute to net carbon dioxide removal in croplands. However, concerns exist that increasing soil organic carbon through NCS might also elevate soil nitrous oxide emissions, potentially offsetting the benefits of carbon sequestration. This underscores the importance of adopting a net GHG approach when assessing the impact of these interventions.

Dr. Shelby McClelland, New York University, and Dr. Mark Farrell, CSIRO Australia, discussed findings from field experiments and simulations to determine whether management practices like reduced tillage and cover crops could lead to increased nitrous oxide emissions, potentially negating the global benefits of soil organic carbon. Additionally, they explored management solutions based on scientific understanding to enhance productivity while minimizing the impact on soil and the environment.

Dr. Jagdish K. Ladha, University of California, Davis, “4 per 1000” Scientific and Technical Committee, took part in these exchanges, and Dr. Budiman Minasny, The University of Sydney, “4 per 1000” Scientific and Technical Committee, moderated this online seminar.

To view or replay the “4 per 1000” Scientific and Technical Committee’s online seminars, click here.