luonnonhiilestä

Luonnonhiili refers to carbon that exists in nature, primarily in organic matter and geological formations. It is a fundamental element of life on Earth, forming the backbone of all organic molecules. Natural carbon cycles continuously move this element between the atmosphere, oceans, land, and living organisms.

In ecosystems, plants absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, converting it into organic compounds. When organisms die, this organic carbon is decomposed by microbes, returning some carbon to the atmosphere as CO2 or methane, and some to the soil as organic matter. This soil organic carbon is a significant reservoir of natural carbon.

Geological processes also play a crucial role in the carbon cycle. Over millions of years, buried organic matter can transform into fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, which are immense stores of ancient natural carbon. Carbon is also found in rocks, such as carbonates.

Human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, have disrupted the natural balance of the carbon cycle by releasing large amounts of stored natural carbon into the atmosphere. This has led to an increase in atmospheric CO2 concentrations, contributing to climate change. Understanding the reservoirs and fluxes of natural carbon is essential for addressing environmental challenges.