Transformation in Soil Properties under Changing Climate: Impacts and Dynamics

The chapter explains the profound effects of climate change on soil characteristics and the sustainability of agriculture. India has experienced an increase in events like droughts, floods, and cyclones, exacerbating the challenges posed by climate change. These alterations in weather patterns lead to significant changes in soil physical properties such as texture, structure, density, porosity, temperature, and moisture dynamics within the soil profile. They also affect chemical properties like soil pH, electrical conductivity (EC), cation exchange capacity (CEC), and the cycling of nutrients, all of which ultimately impact soil health and agricultural productivity. Furthermore, climate change influences soil organic matter levels, microbial activity, and the efficiency of nutrient utilization, making agricultural management more complex. These outcomes endanger soil fertility, water retention, and ecosystem stability, posing substantial risks to both agriculture and global food security. To overcome these difficulties and strengthen the ability of soil ecosystems to withstand them, it’s essential to adopt measures like sustainable land management, carbon sequestration, and reducing emissions.