Researchers believe that even though the Earth's soils currently contain 2.4 trillion tonnes of gases in the form of organic carbon, there is potential for more. According to a study published in the Nature journal by scientists from the US and Scotland, implementing some changes in agricultural practices could create space for an additional 8 billion tonnes. Geoscientist Dave Reay from Edinburgh University emphasizes the importance of utilizing soils as a key ally in the fight against climate change, stating that improved management can significantly increase their capacity as carbon storage. For too long, the potential of using data to address climate change through effective soil management has been overlooked. Issues with accurately measuring and reporting data have hindered progress in this area. However, with the increasing availability of big data on soils globally, as well as advancements in understanding and modeling, the time has come for soil management to take center stage in the fight against climate change. Researchers have long recognized the significant role soils play in climate change and have studied factors that influence a soil's ability to store carbon. They have also tested climate models to assess emissions from soils. They have tested methods for preserving soil carbon and have consistently warned about the organic carbon stores in permafrost. They have also found that human-induced greenhouse gas emissions align with the expansion of global agriculture thousands of years ago. Scientists estimate that land use may be responsible for around 25% of all man-made greenhouse gas emissions, with agriculture directly contributing between 10% and 14%. They argue that since soils contain three times more organic carbon than is present in the atmosphere as carbon dioxide, improved management of the Earth's land could also help decrease emissions. The key is to avoid harming healthy ecosystems, as unmanaged forests and grasslands are effective at storing carbon. When wetlands are drained for agriculture, they release soil carbon, but when restored, they can absorb carbon. There are sustainable agricultural practices that can help conserve carbon while still producing food. Farmers can grow crops with deeper roots, use charcoal-based composts, and utilize efficient practices for their specific crops and land. Tools like the 'Cool Farm Tool' can assist farmers in monitoring and reducing emissions from their land. The researchers suggest that a combination of different strategies, such as better crop rotation, low tillage, land restoration, and agroforestry, could have a significant impact on improving soil health. This comprehensive approach, referred to as the "all-of-the-above" approach, could help soils retain a large portion of the emissions released annually from the burning of fossil fuels. By working together with scientists, government officials, and implementing new methods, these strategies have the potential to make a substantial difference.