Quote:
Originally Posted by Michaelangelica
What is the significance of "significant reductions in . . . N2O emissions from soil"
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Nitrous oxide is a global warming gas whose effect is 296 times stronger than CO2 (methane is 23 times stronger). See global warming potentials (GWP) in Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change,
Climate Change 2001: The Scientific Basis (Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press, 2001)
Fortunately we emit relatively little N2O compared with the carbon gases, but one of the sources is agricultural soil, I guess by decay of nitrogen compounds such as fertiliser. Its strength makes it about as important as methane from that source. So if as Rondon et al say charcoal reduces emissions by 40%, excellent! Another feather in TP's hat.
Rondon et al calculated the N2O + CH4 reduction to be relatively minor compared to the carbon sequestration in effect on overall GWP, but they didn't look at whether it recurs annually after a single charcoal addition in the first year. If it does, this could be a major hidden benefit. Could even be worth a govt paying farmers to spread charcoal in order to meet its climate commitments. Assuming of course you have a govt prepared to commit to anything.
M
