Pedosphere

Climate change significantly affects soil health through a range of physical, chemical, and biological processes. Here are the major impacts:

1. Rising Temperatures

Accelerated Organic Matter Decomposition: Higher temperatures increase microbial activity, which speeds up the breakdown of organic matter, reducing soil fertility over time.

Soil Moisture Loss: Evaporation rates increase, reducing water available for plants and microbes.

Soil Microbial Imbalance: Heat can alter microbial communities, harming beneficial microbes and promoting pathogens.

2. Drought

Reduced Soil Moisture: Leads to hard, compacted soil that is difficult for roots to penetrate.

Decline in Soil Life: Beneficial organisms like earthworms and microbes struggle to survive, impairing nutrient cycling.

Soil Crusting and Erosion: Lack of moisture can lead to crust formation and increased vulnerability to wind erosion.

3. Heavy Rainfall & Flooding

Soil Erosion: Intense rainfall washes away topsoil, the most fertile layer rich in organic matter and nutrients.

Nutrient Leaching: Essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus are washed deeper into the soil or into water bodies, reducing fertility and polluting ecosystems.

Waterlogging: Excess moisture displaces oxygen, damaging root systems and soil microbes.

4. Extreme Weather Events

Disruption of Soil Structure: Frequent freeze-thaw or wet-dry cycles can break down soil aggregates, reducing porosity and increasing compaction.

Increased Landslides or Runoff: Especially on slopes or degraded lands, leading to further soil loss.

5. Carbon Loss & Reduced Soil Carbon Sequestration

Healthy soils act as carbon sinks, but degradation reduces this ability, releasing stored carbon and further contributing to climate change.

6. Salinization (in some regions)

Changes in precipitation and sea-level rise can increase soil salinity, especially in coastal and arid areas, damaging soil health and crop productivity.

Ajmal Sohail Stanikzai Agriculturist Farming Specialist Extension Worker  LINKEDIN