Article Information
A Simple Approach to Estimate Soil Organic Carbon and Soil CO2 Emission

Keywords: CO2 Emission, Global Climate Change, Rothamsted Carbon Turnover Model, SOC.

Mehran University Research Journal of Engineering & Technology

Volume 32 ,  Issue 1

ABBAS FARHAT  

Abstract

SOC (Soil Organic Carbon) and soil CO 2 (Carbon Dioxide) emission are among the indicator of carbon sequestration and hence global climate change. Researchers in developed countries benefit from advance technologies to estimate C (Carbon) sequestration. However, access to the latest technologies has always been challenging in developing countries to conduct such estimates. This paper presents a simple and comprehensive approach for estimating SOC and soil CO 2 emission from arable- and forest soils. The approach includes various protocols that can be followed in laboratories of the research organizations or academic institutions equipped with basic research instruments and technology. The protocols involve soil sampling, sample analysis for selected properties, and the use of a worldwide tested Rothamsted carbon turnover model. With this approach, it is possible to quantify SOC and soil CO 2 emission over short- and long-term basis for global climate change assessment studies.