Effects of soil degradation on soil carbon storage and persistence in peatland

European and Flemish climate-change policies aim to enhance carbon (C) storage in soils of conservation areas, mainly in peatlands. Soil degradation however may impact C persistence in soils, and therefore the sustainability of this policy effort, by making soil C stocks more vulnerable to climatic anomalies, shocks and disturbances. Most relevant degradation processes is drainage legacy in peatlands. They have been shown to affect soil C persistence non-linearily, but processes behind this effect remain elusive and poorly quantified. In this project, we study the molecular composition of functional soil organic matter fractions peatland soils along a gradient of perturbation intensity, to evaluate and quantify how soil degradation levels affect C cycle dynamics and persistence mechanisms. Moreover, we will evaluate the role of soil fauna as a quick-response indicator for imminent changes in soil C persistence, and to evaluate impact of management interventions. Finally, we will translate the process-based insights obtained in the project into a decision-support framework for cost-effective and climate-smart nature management.