The InBestSoil project offers a comprehensive collection of Practice Abstracts, providing practical guidance on sustainable soil management across various land uses and European regions. These abstracts cover topics such as conservation agriculture, nature-based solutions, and soil health benchmarking, aiming to support farmers, land managers, and policymakers in adopting effective soil health practices. By disseminating these insights, InBestSoil facilitates the implementation of evidence-based strategies to enhance soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem services throughout Europe.
The Practice Abstract “Carbon pump: how cattle help to increase soil carbon storage” explores the role of cattle grazing in enhancing soil carbon sequestration. The study highlights that, under appropriate management, cattle can contribute to increased soil organic carbon through mechanisms such as manure deposition, root growth stimulation, and improved plant biomass turnover. These processes enhance soil structure and fertility, promoting long-term carbon storage. The abstract emphasizes the importance of sustainable grazing practices to maximize these benefits while minimizing potential negative impacts like overgrazing or soil compaction. By integrating livestock into soil health strategies, the study suggests a viable pathway for farmers to contribute to climate change mitigation and sustainable agriculture.