What is out of sight may be out of mind, but in this case it may also be combating climate change. A new study by University of Manchester scientist Douglas Kell explores the potential to breed crops with root structures that sequester more carbon and improve nutrient and water holding capacity in soil. Results from this research indicate that a modest increase in rooting depth, from 1m to 2m, could significantly reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. A calculator developed Professor Kell provides estimates for the amount of carbon sequestered by crops and grasses, and further illustrates the benefit of deep-rooting plants.
Read more about the research and its implications on Science Daily.