UK climate change risk assessment 2017: Evidence report (Summary for England)
Read the full reportThe report highlights the critical risks posed by soil degradation, particularly in peatlands, with projections showing a dramatic decline in England's Best and Most Versatile agricultural land due to increased soil aridity and droughts. Evidence highlights the benefits of soil conservation and restoration projects, which significantly improve carbon sequestration and soil health, essential for mitigating climate change impacts.
Soil degradation, especially in peatlands, poses significant risks to soil carbon storage and overall soil health.
The area of Best and Most Versatile (BMV) agricultural land in England is projected to be downgraded from 37% currently to 7% in the 2080s (high emissions scenario) due to increased soil aridity and droughts. Over the same period, the area of low-grade (Grade 4) land is projected to increase from 2% to nearly 66%.
Soil erosion has implications for water quality, as sedimentation reduces levels of dissolved oxygen adversely affecting freshwater species. Around 5% of the 5,500 water bodies in England do not currently meet good ecological status due to sedimentation. Increases in the frequency and intensity of heavy rainfall events will in turn increase the risk of water-based soil erosion.
Changes in climate are expected to affect the abundance and activity of soil microflora.
Deep peat covers 5% of England’s land area (670,000 ha). Just over half of deep peats in England (355,000 ha) are located in the uplands, storing over 140 million tonnes of carbon.
Widespread historical drainage along with continued adverse management practices has resulted in some 70% of peat soils in England being physically degraded. Over half of the 280,000 ha of upland blanket bog habitat in England no longer has peat-forming vegetation present, with 14% completely bare of any vegetation or severely gullied.
Restoration and sustainable management of soils, particularly peatlands, are crucial for enhancing carbon sequestration and mitigating climate change impacts.
Increased seasonal aridity and wetness due to climate change can exacerbate soil erosion and degradation, impacting soil health and carbon storage.
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
- Implementing soil conservation measures to reduce degradation and enhance soil organic carbon content.
- Investing in the restoration of degraded peatlands and other carbon-rich soils to improve their condition and carbon sequestration capacity.
- Encouraging sustainable land management practices that protect and enhance soil health.
Read the full report
UK climate change risk assessment 2017: Evidence report (Summary for England)