Soils

Climate is one of the key factors controlling the natural soil formation processes and the functions of soils in the environment. Many of the anticipated effects of climate change on soils are based on the premise that a warming climate is likely to have an impact on soil organic carbon levels and consequently on greenhouse gas emissions.

Changes in rainfall patterns and air temperature will be felt by the soil mirco-organisms and thus promote change the biochemistry of soils. How soil micro-organisms respond and adapt to changes in soil temperature and wetness will directly influence many of the ecosystem services essential to life. For example, soil nutrients are the source of energy for plant growth. Nutrients are either naturally present in soils or added through fertiliser and other organic amendments to the land. But the processed by which plants extract and use nutrients are strongly dependant on soil water and temperature conditions.  Similar factors will controlled the decomposition of soil organic matter. After death, all vegetation and soil organisms are broken down by living soil organisms and their essential constituents are returned to the ground thus renewing soil nutrient resources.  Soil conditions will also impacts on the ability of soils to soak up pollutants and thus reduce pollution in water course.

Climate change will also influence the way we manage our land and soils by changing the land itself. Changes in the intensity and annual distribution of rainfall may create more waterlogged soils at times when access is needed  (e.g. cultivation, harvesting). Excessive poaching by animals, humans and machinery can compact the soil, thus reducing its productivity and can lead to increased erosion and risk of landslides, flooding and pollution of river courses.