Climate Change and Carbon Sequestration

Industrial revolution has led footprints towards changes in atmospheric composition since its initiation. The Earth's average surface temperature increased by 0.74°C in the late 19th century, and is projected to increase by >1.5°C (IPCC Fifth Assessment Report). In the scenarios of higher rates of emissions, temperature is likely to exceed 2°C and could be as much as 4°C at the end of 21st century. Climatic vulnerability includes increased frequency of extreme events such as cyclones, floods, cold-hot waves and droughts. Temperature increase is associated with a rise in greenhouse gases, deforestation, agriculture and industrial processes. CO₂, methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O) are the prime GHGs which are associated with agriculture. Indian agriculture, on which about 60% of the populations are dependent for livelihood may have impacted directly or indirectly by abrupt climate change. On the other hand Soil organic matter (SOM) in soils is a strong determinant of soil quality and controls the physico-chemical and biological soil processes. A warming climate and decreasing soil moisture limits the soil functions. One of the important climate smart agricultural practices is reduction of CO₂ emission by restoring soil organic carbon (SOC) pool and improving soil quality which can address both the problems of food security and climate change.