Effect of land use change and sugarcane management practices on soil C, soil health and associated ecosystem services: an evidence synthesis

Abstract

Given the population growth scenario projected for the coming years, the search for sustainable production systems is fundamental to ensure global food, energy, and climate security. To reduce the impact of the energy sector, the use of biofuels such as sugarcane ethanol is an important strategy to reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions. In this context, Brazil stands out globally as the largest producer of sugarcane, with a production of more than 27 billion liters of sugarcane ethanol. Although increased ethanol production shows a positive effect on GHG emissions, the National Biofuels Policy (RenovaBio) does not take into account the effect of land use changes and sugarcane management practices on soil organic carbon (SOC) changes, which is the largest C pool in terrestrial ecosystems. In addition, SOC changes also affect soil health and associated ecosystem services. This postdoctoral project proposes to conduct an evidence synthesis study based on legacy data compilation, literature review and meta-analysis. The proposal was divided into three work packages (WP) with the objectives of assessing the effect of LUC and sugarcane production management practices on SOC changes (WP1), soil health (WP2) and soil-related ecosystem services (WP3) for different edaphoclimatic conditions in Brazil. The results will provide greater support for policymakers and allow SOC changes to be considered in the calculation of Decarbonization Credits (CBIOs) issues, other carbon market mechanisms, certifications, and payment for environmental (ecosystem) services in the future. Thus, farmers will be encouraged to adopt good management practices, which in turn will result in improved soil health and the provision of soil-related ecosystem services, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations.