Compare the environmental benefits of using waste compost versus synthetic fertilizers in the rice-wheat cropping system, focusing on carbon sequestration.
At least 98% of our food supply comes from the soil. Soil sequestration of Carbon and Nitrogen from the air to the soil is a way of combatting Anthropogenic Global Warming.
The history of cultivation has led to a loss of well over half of soil organic matter and in many cases up to 90% loss. This loss depletes the water and air capacity of the soil.
Systematic focus on soil organic matter can not only address AGW but can work to improve the quality and quantity of food stuff avaiable.
Soil organic matter can adsorb several times its weight in water and it opens space in soils so roots are healthier and can better thrive in the soil environment. The well provided organic soil improves soil percolation, soil water retention and its delivery to the plant.
In terms of carbon sequestration composting reduces the volume and stabilizes the product to enhance it retention in the soil over alonger periods. Stubble wastes can be combined with animal waste to improve the process and give useful by products.
The inclusion of straw waste for mushroon culture can marked increase profit potential which serve as win win resolution to issues which are confronted.
Compost is rich in nutrients and therefore increases the fertility of the soil. compost releases nutrients slowly over time, while chemical fertilizer provides a boost and accelerates growth in a short period but Fertilizers have played an essential role in feeding a growing global population. It's estimated that just under half of the people alive today are dependent on synthetic fertilizers. Our World in Data shows how many people the synthetic nitrogen fertilizer feed after it became commercially available. Current initiatives to store carbon in soils as a measure to mitigate climate change are gaining momentum. Agriculture plays an important role in soil carbon initiatives, as almost 40% of the world’s soils are currently used as cropland and grassland. Composting is the most adaptable and fruitful method for managing biodegradable solid wastes; it is a crucial agricultural practice that contributes to recycling farm and agricultural wastes. Composting is profitable for various plant, animal, and synthetic wastes, from residential bins to large corporations.
As stated by Paul and Prem, there are benefits however one must take precautions to not contaminate the soil with elements /compounds that are toxic to biota including humans. That is they must be comprehensively analysed.
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Chemistry, Organic
- Organic