Microbial Contributions to Soil Organic Carbon Storage in Urban Green Spaces: A Case Study in Eco-Urban Settings

Abstract

The role of urban green spaces in mitigating climate change has gained importance in ecological research. This study investigates microbial contributions to soil organic carbon (SOC) storage within urban environments, focusing on a case study in Berlin, Germany. We utilized a quantitative approach combining soil sampling and advanced spectroscopic analysis to evaluate microbial biomass and its correlation to SOC levels. Field data collection was conducted over a period of six months, applying rigorous sampling protocols in diverse green space types. Our findings reveal a significant positive relationship between microbial activity and SOC storage, with averages showing an increase of 22% in SOC levels in biodiverse plantings compared to conventional green spaces. These insights underscore the crucial role microbes play in enhancing SOC sequestration, thus informing sustainable urban planning and management strategies. This investigation contributes to our understanding of urban ecology and the potential of urban green spaces in carbon management, crucial for urban sustainability initiatives.