Carbon Cycle

Engineered biochar could offer a greener path to carbon dioxide capture

Soil carbon residence time regulates the age of dissolved organic matter in global rivers

A new study reveals that soil carbon residence time governs riverine dissolved organic matter's age, with climate, hydrology, and soil processes controlling carbon cycling in rivers. The research provides a high-resolution global atlas of riverine DOC, showing that ancient carbon sources are locally important but modern terrestrial org...

Climate change leads to significant loss of soil inorganic carbon

A study led by Chinese Academy of Sciences reveals climate change leads to unprecedented sensitivity of soil inorganic carbon pools. Climate-driven effects on SIC dynamics are quantified using a novel process-based model, showing significant losses of up to 307 Tg C in topsoil.

New study quantifies lake CO₂ emissions and their rising trend in China

A recent study by Chinese researchers has quantified lake carbon dioxide emissions in China, finding a significant increase of 24% over the past two decades. The study highlights the importance of high-resolution monitoring to refine lake carbon budgets and inform effective climate mitigation policies.

Planets need more water to support life than scientists previously thought

Scientists found that habitable planets must have sufficient water to support a geologic carbon cycle, which stabilizes surface temperatures. Arid planets in the habitable zone are unlikely to be good candidates for life due to carbon cycle disruption, which can lead to runaway warming.

What triggered Earth's shift from a greenhouse to an icehouse climate and the onset of the Late Paleozoic Ice Age?

A research team found that enhanced silicate weathering contributed to CO2 drawdown and the onset of the Late Paleozoic Ice Age, reducing atmospheric CO2 levels by approximately 800 ppm. This process also boosted marine nutrient supply and productivity, leading to the observed shifts in carbon isotopes.

ForestTalks webinar explores integrating Earth observation and national forest inventories across Europe

The webinar highlighted the potential of combining NFI field data, EO disturbance products, and national statistics for robust forest carbon monitoring. Continental-scale carbon balance analysis showed a trend towards neutral over the past decade, with large interannual variability.

Biochar boosts soil carbon storage through microbial pathways, but effects vary with soil depth

A new field study reveals that biochar significantly increases microbial necromass carbon in topsoil by up to 39%, linked to improved nutrient availability and microbial efficiency. However, in subsoil layers, biochar reduces microbial necromass carbon by as much as 30% due to nutrient limitations.

A Wisconsin-sized chunk of Alaskan permafrost is thawing; Arctic and global climate may never be the same

A recent study reveals that Alaskan permafrost is thawing rapidly, leading to increased runoff, carbon releases, and altered coastal ecosystems. The research focused on a Wisconsin-sized area of Alaska's North Slope, simulating daily river flows and coastal exports over 44 years.

Not all biochar is created equal: study calls for clearer standards in carbon markets and agriculture

A new study highlights the critical misunderstanding of biochar's role in fighting climate change and improving soils, warning that oversimplified claims could undermine scientific progress and carbon markets. Biochar is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and its effectiveness depends on where it is used.

Microbes hold the key to unlocking biochar’s carbon storage potential in soils

A global analysis reveals that microbial communities play a decisive role in determining biochar's carbon storage potential. Biochar increases soil organic carbon by an average of 52.4%, but its effectiveness varies depending on the composition of soil microbial communities and environmental conditions.

Wetlands in Brazil’s Cerrado are carbon-storage powerhouses

Cerrado wetlands in Brazil's savannas are carbon storage powerhouses, storing an estimated 20% of Amazon's carbon. The peaty soils of these wetlands store about 1,200 metric tons of carbon per hectare, equivalent to six times the average carbon density of Amazon rainforest soils.

New study finds deep ocean microbes already prepared to tackle climate change

A new study reveals that deep-sea microbes like Nitrosopumilus maritimus can adapt to warmer, nutrient-poor waters, maintaining their role in nitrogen cycling and primary production. This finding suggests that these microbes may play an important role in reshaping ocean-nutrient distribution in a changing climate.

Turning orchard waste into climate solutions: A simple method boosts biochar carbon storage

Researchers developed a low-cost method to transform agricultural waste into high-quality biochar, increasing its ability to store carbon and combat climate change. The new method uses limewater treatment to improve biochar production, resulting in a 34% increase in carbon retention and improved soil structure and chemistry.

Microplastics in soil may reshape microbial genes and threaten ecosystem stability

A growing body of research suggests that microplastics in soils can alter microbial genes controlling essential ecosystem functions, potentially affecting food production, climate processes, and environmental health. Microplastics also enhance the spread of antibiotic resistance genes in soil ecosystems.

Rewetting peatlands could unlock more effective carbon removal using biochar

A new study suggests that applying biochar to rewetted peatlands can improve long-term carbon storage while reducing the need for highly stable biochars. Rewetting peatlands slows decomposition and helps prevent carbon loss, allowing more of biochar's carbon to remain stored over time.

Understanding “snowball earth” extreme climates — when the world is covered in ice

Researchers reveal that seafloor weathering may be responsible for the discrepancy in Snowball Earth event durations, with faster rates linked to longer glaciations. This finding has significant implications for predicting future climate change.

Recycling strategies of fungi can affect how forests store carbon

Researchers found that fungi recycle mycelium based on two clear strategies: wasteful and frugal. The 'wasteful' group leaves behind inactive mycelium, while the 'frugal' group quickly recycles nutrients to preserve them and reduce losses to other organisms. This discovery provides new insights into the carbon cycle and climate.

Counting the carbon cost of E-waste

A groundbreaking field-based research study from Nankai University found the average carbon emission of dismantling a single unit of E-waste increased from 1.2513 kgCO2 to 1.3335 kgCO2 between 2013 and 2020, highlighting the urgent need for more efficient recycling technologies.

Increased soil salinity alters global inorganic carbon storage

A new study finds that soil salinization influences inorganic carbon storage, particularly in regions with elevated salinity. The research reveals a conditional relationship between salinity and inorganic carbon, highlighting the need to incorporate soil chemical processes into global carbon assessments.

Ventilation of the North Atlantic is weakening

The North Atlantic's ocean ventilation has weakened, with water masses aging significantly faster than 30 years ago. This decline in ventilation indicates a slower renewal of deep waters and reduced oxygen transport to depths, potentially impacting marine ecosystems.

Biochar helps farmland soils withstand extreme rain and drought by steadying carbon loss

Researchers found that biochar can soften the impacts of swings between wet and dry conditions on soil organic carbon breakdown. The study showed that stronger moisture variability speeds up decomposition and boosts microbial activity, but biochar addition helped stabilize the soil system under variable moisture conditions.

From straw to soil harmony: International team reveals how biochar supercharges carbon-smart farming

A new international study discovers that combining biochar with straw can reduce carbon emissions, boost soil health, and encourage microbes to work together. The research bridges Moscow and Guangzhou, delivering one of the clearest pictures yet of how organic amendments shape the hidden world beneath our feet.

Bubbles enhance the ocean’s CO2 uptake more strongly than previously assumed

A new study has found that the ocean's ability to absorb CO2 is stronger than previously assumed, with air bubbles playing a key role in this process. The research suggests that the ocean absorbed around 0.3-0.4 petagrams more carbon per year, about 15% more than previous estimates.

Roots reveal a hidden carbon pathway in maize plants

A new study reveals that maize roots can absorb CO2 from the soil atmosphere, contributing to plant biomass and challenging traditional views on carbon balances in croplands. The root system plays an active role in regulating carbon flows between soil, plants, and the atmosphere.

Study showcases resilience and rapid growth of “living rocks”

A new study reveals that microbialites in South Africa are thriving, growing up to 2 inches vertically every year. They absorb carbon day and night through metabolic processes, making them one of the most efficient biological mechanisms for long-term carbon storage observed in nature.

Biochar reshapes hidden soil microbes that capture carbon dioxide in farmland

New research reveals biochar's impact on autotrophic soil microbes that fix carbon dioxide through the Calvin cycle. In paddy soils, these microbes are active capturing carbon dioxide, while in upland soils, microbial biomass and labile carbon pools play a larger role.

Researchers find promising adaptations to climate change in tropical forests

Researchers at Colorado State University found that some tropical forest plants are adapting to drought by growing longer root systems, potentially helping reduce vulnerability. The study's findings suggest flexibility under drying conditions may rescue the forest, but long-term implications remain uncertain.

Heat and drought change what forests breathe out

Researchers found that warming temperatures may actually reduce nitrogen gas emissions from forest soils in dry conditions, contradicting earlier predictions. The study's findings suggest that moisture levels, not just heat, play a crucial role in determining the fate of nitrogen in forests.

FSU oceanographers present new conceptual framework to answer age-old question: What happens to carbon as it sinks through the ocean?

Researchers found upper ocean ecosystem conditions play a major role in shaping the composition of carbon-rich particles sinking into the deep ocean, storing carbon for decades. Microorganisms influence these transformations, which determine how long this carbon is locked away.

Fossil fuel CO2 emissions hit record high in 2025

The 2025 Global Carbon Budget projects a record high of 38.1 billion tonnes of fossil CO2 emissions, with decarbonisation efforts not enough to offset growing energy demand. Climate change is weakening the land and ocean carbon sinks, reducing the remaining carbon budget to limit global warming to 1.5°C.

Tiny diatoms, big climate impact: How microscopic skeletons rapidly shape ocean chemistry

Researchers discovered that tiny diatom skeletons transform into clay minerals in just 40 days, rapidly shaping ocean chemistry. This process, known as reverse weathering, influences carbon dioxide levels, nutrient recycling, and marine ecosystems.

Geography: Ways to achieve more accurate carbon budgets

A team of researchers from LMU München investigated why CO2 fluxes from land use are uncertain and how they can be estimated more accurately in the future. They found that differences in definitions, data sources, and model assumptions lead to substantial discrepancies and uncertainties.

In the US, Western rivers may be allies in the fight against climate change

A new study reveals that many Western river networks in arid areas may be soaking up more carbon dioxide than they emit, challenging the long-held assumption of net emissions. This finding has significant implications for understanding the global carbon cycle and managing CO2 levels.

Ocean iron fertilization or artificial ocean alkalinization? Study reveals divergent effects on climate

Researchers analyzed two marine-based carbon removal methods, ocean iron fertilization (OIF) and artificial ocean alkalinization (AOA), for their impacts on the climate system. OIF enhances marine carbon sinks by adding iron, increasing photosynthesis and absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere, but exacerbates deep-ocean acidification.

Roots in the dark: Russian scientists uncover hidden carbon dioxide uptake in plant roots

Researchers found that plant roots can actively absorb CO₂ from the soil, with this process influenced by light, fertilizer, and atmospheric conditions. Root-based CO₂ absorption may be an alternative carbon nutrition pathway.

Biochar and hydrochar show contrasting climate effects in boreal grasslands

A new study found that different types of char can raise or lower greenhouse gas emissions from northern soils. Biochar tends to increase nitrous oxide emissions, while hydrochar suppresses it and even turns the soil into a small sink.

Tiny ocean organisms missing from climate models may hold the key to Earth’s carbon future

Climate models oversimplify the role of calcifying plankton in capturing and cycling carbon, potentially underestimating the ocean's capacity to respond to climate change. Ignoring these organisms' diversity risks oversimplifying how the ocean responds to climate stressors.

Biochar shows big promise for climate-friendly soil management

Researchers found that biochar improves soil health by increasing microbial diversity, capturing carbon, and enhancing nutrient cycling. Biochar acts as a long-lasting carbon sink, storing carbon for hundreds to thousands of years.

Marine heatwaves have hidden impacts on ocean food webs and carbon cycling

A new study found that marine heatwaves impact the base of ocean food webs, changing carbon cycling in the process. However, the effects of the two heatwaves were not consistent, with one causing a 'conveyor belt' to jam and increasing the risk of carbon returning to the atmosphere.

Carbon cycle can plunge Earth into an ice age

A new study suggests that the Earth's carbon cycle can overcorrect and plunge the planet into an ice age if greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise. The researchers found that in a warmer world with enhanced algae growth, the oceans lose oxygen, leading to a feedback loop that consumes more carbon.

Study links human activities to increased non-diatom carbon burial in the Changjiang River Estuary

Researchers analyzed sediment cores to find a recurring 60-year cycle in carbon and silicon burial, showing human intervention led to changes in estuary ecosystems. Human activities like dam construction reduced organic matter delivery, while increased water clarity promoted algal growth.

New biochar strategy tackles toxic cadmium in rice paddies while locking away carbon

A new type of biochar, phosphorus/iron-doped biochar, has been developed to address both problems at once—immobilizing toxic cadmium in soil while helping trap carbon. The study found that it significantly reduced cadmium mobility and improved carbon retention in the soil.

Carbon cycle flaw can plunge Earth into an ice age

Researchers at UC Riverside discovered a carbon burial process in the ocean that can cause Earth's temperature to overshoot and cool down, potentially triggering an ice age. The study suggests that the planet's thermostat is not functioning as expected due to changes in atmospheric oxygen levels.

Boston College’s Hanqin Tian is 2025 AGU Bert Bolin Award and Lecture Recipient

Hanqin Tian, Boston College Professor and Director of the Center for Earth System Science and Global Sustainability, has been honored with the 2025 AGU Bert Bolin Award. His research has fundamentally advanced understanding of biogeochemical cycles and their roles in the climate system.

Applied Microbiology International joins forces with microbiology leaders to launch Global Climate Change Strategy

A global alliance of microbiology organizations has unveiled a joint strategy to integrate microbial science into climate policy, innovation and public discourse. The strategy aims to recognize microbes as vital allies in the fight against climate change and chart a clear course for microbiology organizations to lead by example.

Seasonal freeze–thaw cycles may cause “green” biochar to leak toxic metals, new study warns

Researchers found that repeated freeze-thaw cycles can damage biochar and release heavy metals such as zinc, copper, and lead. Biochar made at higher production temperatures were more vulnerable to cracking and oxidation during freeze-thaw stress.

New paper links atmosphere and ocean in weathering, carbon dioxide removal

A new study found that land and ocean weathering processes are linked, influencing the amount of carbon stored or released into the atmosphere. The research proposes a continuum approach to studying weathering reactions on both land and in the ocean.

Thawing permafrost raised carbon dioxide levels after the last ice age

A new study by the University of Gothenburg suggests that thawing permafrost played a significant role in raising carbon dioxide levels after the last ice age. Researchers estimate that this carbon exchange may have accounted for almost half of the rising CO2 levels.

Study suggests natural areas may acquire too little nitrogen to repair climate

A new study finds that natural areas around the globe acquire less nitrogen than previously estimated, which could reduce their capacity to store carbon and mitigate climate change. The rise in agricultural nitrogen fixation may also contribute to land degradation, air pollution, and water quality issues.

Unprecedented acidification ahead for Hawaiian corals

A new study projects significant ocean acidification around Hawaiian Islands within the next three decades, posing challenges to coral reefs and other marine organisms. Researchers found varying levels of acidity across different island regions, with windward coastlines exhibiting higher novelty in future conditions.

Illuminated sugars show how microbes eat the ocean's carbon

A team of researchers developed a molecular probe that detects sugar consumption in microbes, revealing the role of microorganisms in breaking down ocean sugars. The study provides new insights into glycan cycling across ecosystems and sheds light on the global carbon cycle.

Agricultural liming in the US is a large CO2 sink, say researchers

New research claims adding lime to agricultural soils can remove CO2 from the atmosphere, rather than cause emissions. The study, based on over 100 years of data, shows that the addition of acidity is the main driver for CO2 emissions from soils.

Dissolved carbon storage and flux dynamics in China’s inland waters over the past 30 years

Dissolved carbon storage in China's lakes and reservoirs increased by 37% over the past 30 years, with significant regional differences. Climate change, anthropogenic disturbances, and water chemistry factors drive these dynamics.

Tiny ocean migrants play a massive role in Southern Ocean carbon storage

A groundbreaking study reveals that small zooplankton like copepods and krill enhance carbon sequestration through seasonal migrations. These tiny creatures store around 65 million tonnes of carbon annually in the deep ocean.

Cascading impacts of groundwater input to coral reefs

A new study found that submarine groundwater discharge increases nutrient availability, alters seawater acidity, and impacts coral skeleton calcification. This research provides insights into the complex interactions between land and ocean, highlighting the importance of keeping groundwater free of contaminants for coral reef health.

New research uncovers surprising physics of ‘marine snow’

Researchers at Brown University have discovered that particles in the ocean can absorb salt at varying rates, affecting their sinking speed. This finding could aid in understanding the ocean's nutrient cycle and settling of microplastics. The study provides new insights into the physics of 'marine snow' and its role in ocean dynamics.

Fool’s gold: A hidden climate stabilizer

Scientists have found that oceanic anaerobic respiration produces sulfur species, forming pyrite or 'fool's gold', which helps buffer the alkalinity of water and prevent acidification. This process has a stabilizing effect on the ocean, playing a significant role in preserving its alkalinity for millions of years.

With evolutionary AI, scientists find hidden keys for better land use

The AI system uses evolutionary computing to find optimal policy solutions that balance trade-offs between carbon storage, economic disruptions, and environmental benefits. It recommends nuanced approaches to land-use strategies, such as replacing crop land with forest, rather than simply converting all land into forests.

Could the goo and gunk in your home be solutions to climate change?

Researchers have found new organisms that can capture carbon dioxide and clean pollutants from the environment. By exploring extremophiles in homes, scientists can gain insights into their unique characteristics and develop sustainable solutions.