Evidence for the third UK climate change risk assessment (CCRA3) - Scotland

  • Commissioner: UK Government
  • Conducted by: CCC (Climate Change Committee)
  • Year: 2021
  • Countries: Scotland
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Climate change threatens Scotland's soils with increased seasonal aridity and wetness, jeopardizing soil health and carbon sequestration. The report calls for urgent action to restore degraded carbon stores, particularly in peatlands, and to enhance soil conservation measures, with evidence showing significant benefits in reducing erosion and increasing soil carbon storage.

Climate change poses risks to Scotland’s soils, including increased seasonal aridity and wetness, which can affect soil health and carbon sequestration.

More action is needed to restore degraded carbon stores, particularly peatlands, and increase the uptake of soil conservation measures.

Warmer and wetter winters, as well as changes in precipitation patterns, are expected to impact soil organic carbon stocks and soil health.

Evidence from studies highlights the benefits of soil conservation practices in reducing erosion and increasing soil carbon storage.

Restoration projects in peatlands have shown significant improvements in carbon sequestration and soil health.

Recommendations for policy implementation

  1. Implement soil conservation measures to reduce degradation and enhance soil organic carbon content.
  2. Invest in the restoration of degraded peatlands and other carbon-rich soils to improve their condition and carbon sequestration capacity.
  3. Encourage sustainable land management practices that protect and enhance soil health.
  4. Further research is needed to monitor soil health, including SOC levels, erosion rates, and soil biota, particularly for carbon-rich soils. This research is essential to develop effective soil conservation strategies and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
  5. Long-term monitoring of soil health and the implementation of targeted erosion reduction measures are crucial for managing the impacts of climate change on soil health.

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Evidence for the third UK climate change risk assessment (CCRA3) – Scotland