Understanding soil carbon sequestration: mechanistic insights, management approaches, and future challenges

[Geoengineering News]

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s44378-025-00133-5

Authors: Vivek Ghimirey, Jay Chaurasia & Nobel Acharya 

Published: 01 November 2025

Abstract

Soil carbon sequestration (SCS) is a potent, nature-based solution to mitigate climate change by capturing atmospheric CO₂ and storing it in soils as organic matter or in mineral forms such as carbonates. This study examines data from 2000 to 2025, illustrating how SCS works, its benefits, and the challenges to scaling up at a global level. Organic carbon gets stabilized through processes like microbial action, humification, and plant decomposition, while inorganic carbon gets sequestered in soil minerals after undergoing chemical reactions. Effective methods to enhance SCS include sustainable agricultural practices, such as reduced tillage, cover crops, and agroforestry, as well as the use of biochar, organic compost, and wetland restoration. These practices not only increase carbon storage but also soil fertility, water retention, and biodiversity, developing resilient farming systems. SCS presents both opportunities and challenges. It is still difficult to accurately quantify stored carbon due to soil variation, and climate extremes or haphazard land management can reverse achievements. Adoption is also hindered by high costs and the lack of policy incentives. There is a need for standardized monitoring tools and carbon credit markets to incentivize landowners and farmers in order to address these barriers. Integration of SCS into global climate mechanisms, like the Paris Agreement, and national policies can increase its scope. Future research should focus on cost-effective measurement technologies, a better understanding of microbial contributions, and long-term carbon stabilization mechanisms. Addressing these gaps will pave the way for effective climate action, food security, and sustainable development.

Source: Springer Nature Link