AgroFossilFree - Assessment of soil carbon level after application of pressmud and mulching regarding soil carbon sequestration

Γενική περιγραφή

Among the five carbon pools, soil carbon pool is one of the biggest pools having a potential of maximum carbon storage. Agriculture is a primary practice which deals with soil over the period of years. Positive amendments in agricultural practices can lead to a better soil carbon sequestration. Current study focuses on application of pressmud and organic mulching in standing crop. Pressmud is easily available at reasonable rate in Western Maharashtra as number of sugar industries are more. Mulching is also affordable to farmers, as it comprises leaves of local trees and bushes. The present study shows that there is 89.41% and 30.28% increase in soil carbon levels after application of pressmud and mulching respectively. Results show that both practices not only increase organic carbon content, but also responsible for the betterment of physical and nutritional status of soil. Thus, these agricultural practices can help to increase the rate of soil carbon sequestration. The results are discussed in the paper.