Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula (Bush, 2000). The Himalayan
region is also an important carbon sink, particularly in terms of carbon
storage in the soil of grasslands, wetlands, and forests. Wang et al. (2002)
estimate that the organic carbon content of soils subtending grasslands
on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau total 33,500 ยด 106 metric tons representing
almost one quarter of China's total organic soil carbon and 2.5 percent of
the global pool of soil carbon. Climatic variables influence soil carbon
stocks through their effects on vegetation and through their influence on
the rate of decomposition of soil organic matter. In grassland ecosystems,
net ecosystem productivity (that is, the amount of carbon sequestered) is
very small compared to the size of fluxes, so there is great potential for
changes affecting fluxes to change the net flow of carbon and for grass-
lands, therefore, to shift from being a CO
2
sink to a CO
2
source (Jones and
Donnely, 2004), contributing further to global warming.
19.11
POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS
19.11.1 REDUCING SCIENTIFIC UNCERTAINTY
19.11.1.1 DEVELOP SCIENTIFIC PROGRAMS FOR CLIMATE
CHANGE MONITORING
Credible, up-to-date scientific knowledge is essential for the development
of a climate change policy, including adaptation and mitigation measures.
The current review finds a severe lack of field observations. It is essential
to develop a scientific basis, in collaboration with government agencies
and academia. Remote sensing allows for regular and repeated monitor-
ing of snow cover, which can be carried out by countries such as China
and India, with results shared with those lacking such technological infra-
structure. Studies need to include both ground-based and satellite-based
monitoring. Well-equipped stations and long-term monitoring, networking
and cooperation within and outside the region are essential. Participatory
methods of assessing and monitoring climate and environmental change,
local perceptions and practices at the local level are also required. Local
communities can play a role in determining adaptation practices based on
local information and knowledge. School science programs can be devel-
oped and introduced in local communities.
