What is the process of increasing carbon storage in soils called, particularly in light of concerns about global warming?

The process of increasing carbon storage in soils is called sequestration. This term refers to the long-term storage of carbon dioxide or other forms of carbon to mitigate or defer climate change. In the context of agriculture and soil management, carbon sequestration involves practices that enhance the ability of soils to store carbon, such as improving soil organic matter, adopting no-till farming, cover cropping, and implementing agroforestry practices. These methods not only help sequester carbon but also improve soil health, enhance biodiversity, and increase agricultural resilience in the face of climate change.

The other options do not pertain to carbon storage in soils directly. Vernalization refers to a process in plant biology that involves the exposure of seeds or plants to cold temperatures to trigger flowering. Incorporation relates to the mixing of organic matter or amendments into the soil for various purposes but does not specifically address carbon storage. Eutrophication describes the nutrient enrichment of water bodies, leading to excessive growth of algae and other aquatic plants, which again is not related to soil carbon sequestration.