Carbon Sequestration in Soils of Latin America

Discover the latest available knowledge on ways to reduce CO2 in the atmosphere!

The problem of quickly mounting CO2 emissions in the fast-developing Latin American region was addressed in a symposium held in Piracicaba, Brazil, in June 2004. Carbon Sequestration in Soils of Latin America presents the latest available knowledge in soil C sequestration and improved land and soil management which can also lead to other positive effects, such as greater fertility of soil and higher crop yields. This text, in easy-to-understand language, comprehensively reviews ways to best transform various soils from being a source of carbon released into the atmosphere to become a sink for carbon absorption.

Carbon Sequestration in Soils of Latin America presents a full-rounded explanation of this information in four sections. The first section gives detailed background information about the region, its climate, and the differing soils, along with basic concepts behind the science. The second section describes recommended management practices and rates of soil C sequestration. The third section thoroughly deals with methods of assessment of soil C. The last section provides a summary of recommendations for further research and development. The book is extensively referenced and contains numerous figures, tables, and photographs.

Topics in Carbon Sequestration in Soils of Latin America include:

soil eco-regions and principal biomes of Latin America

soil carbon stock in principal ecosystems of Latin America

rates of carbon sequestration in different eco-regions for predominant land use and management

the role of the Amazon region in mitigating climate change

the importance of tropical savannas of Latin America in mitigating global warming

innovative methods of assessment of soil carbon pool

trading carbon credits

designing pilot soil carbon sequestration projects

potential of soil carbon sequestration in Latin America

priorities and recommendations for future research

Carbon Sequestration in Soils of Latin America is a comprehensive, essential resource for land managers, policymakers, educators, students, and researchers.