Table of Contents
Overview
Definition and Scope
Biogeochemistry is defined as the scientific discipline that investigates the interactions between biological, chemical, and geological processes within the environment, focusing on the cycling of essential elements such as carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, iron, and magnesium.[3.1] This multidisciplinary field integrates principles from biology, geology, chemistry, and environmental science to understand how these elements interact with living organisms and their surroundings.[8.1] Biogeochemistry is defined as the scientific discipline that investigates the mutual interactions between the biological and chemical components of the Earth system, making it a crucial aspect of the broader field of geobiology.[7.1] This discipline encompasses the study of biogeochemical cycles, which are the pathways through which chemical elements, such as carbon and nitrogen, are transported through Earth's biological systems over time and space.[5.1] Biogeochemistry explores the physical, chemical, biological, and geological processes that govern the composition of Earth's surface environments and the changes that occur within them.[6.1] As a well-established field, biogeochemistry has a dedicated journal and textbook, with numerous publications contributing to its literature each year.[7.1] Biogeochemistry can be defined as the science that examines the mutual interactions between the biology and chemistry of the Earth system, focusing on the relationship of earth chemicals to plant and animal life in various areas.[9.1] This field encompasses the study of biogeochemical cycles, including the cycles of essential chemical elements such as carbon and nitrogen, and their interactions with living organisms, which are transported through earth-scale biological systems over time and space.[5.1] Notable biogeochemical processes include nitrification, the conversion of ammonia to nitrate by soil bacteria, and the reduction of sulfate to sulfide by bacteria in groundwater.[4.1] The development of biogeochemistry has its roots in the 19th century, with significant contributions from scientists like Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, who first introduced the term "biosphere" in 1802, and further advancements by researchers such as Dumas and Boussingault, whose work in 1844 marked a pivotal moment in the field.[5.1] Today, biogeochemistry is recognized as an important component of geobiology, supported by a well-established body of literature and numerous publications in dedicated journals.[7.1]Importance in Environmental Science
Biogeochemistry is fundamental to understanding the intricate interactions among biological, geological, and chemical processes that are essential for sustaining life on Earth. The delicate balance of biogeochemical cycles is crucial for environmental sustainability, as disruptions to these cycles can significantly impact biodiversity, food security, human health, and water quality.[14.1] Human activities have greatly increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere and nitrogen levels in the biosphere, leading to altered biogeochemical cycles that heighten the vulnerability of these systems to climate change.[10.1] Furthermore, the human-induced acceleration of the nitrogen and phosphorus cycles has already resulted in widespread freshwater and marine eutrophication, a challenge that is expected to intensify under a warming climate.[12.1] To mitigate these negative impacts, it is essential to adopt sustainable practices that minimize human disruptions to these natural processes and educate communities about the importance of maintaining the balance of our planet’s life-support systems.[14.1] The complexity of future biogeochemical cycles is expected to increase as climate change progresses, necessitating ongoing research that integrates field observations with ecosystem models to predict the impacts of both climate change and human activities.[11.1] For instance, the acceleration of the nitrogen and phosphorus cycles due to human influence has already resulted in widespread eutrophication in freshwater and marine environments, a problem anticipated to worsen under continued warming.[12.1] To mitigate these negative impacts, a multifaceted approach is required to restore balance in disrupted biogeochemical cycles. Implementing sustainable agricultural practices, such as crop rotation and organic farming, can significantly reduce nutrient runoff into waterways.[13.1] Additionally, promoting renewable energy sources can help mitigate emissions from fossil fuels, further supporting the stability of these cycles.[13.1] Community education on conservation efforts is also vital for maintaining the delicate balance of Earth's life-support systems.[14.1] Geological factors play a crucial role in nutrient cycling within ecosystems, as processes such as weathering, erosion, and volcanic activity significantly influence the release and availability of nutrients from rocks and minerals.[19.1] The geological composition of a region determines the types and quantities of nutrients available for biogeochemical cycling, which is essential for maintaining ecosystem productivity.[19.1] For instance, phosphorus is recognized as a key limiting nutrient for primary productivity in terrestrial ecosystems and is considered the ultimate limiting nutrient for marine primary production.[20.1] Additionally, climate, geology, hydrology, ecosystems, and human activities collectively affect biogeochemical cycling.[16.1] Understanding these interactions is vital for developing sustainable management plans that address the long-term patterns and drivers of biogeochemical cycling.[16.1]History
Early Concepts and Foundations
The origins of biogeochemistry can be traced back to ancient philosophical concepts that sought to understand the relationships between organic and inorganic substances. Notably, Empedocles (483–424 B.C.) divided the physical universe into four elements: air, water, fire, and earth, laying early groundwork for the integration of biological and geological processes. Additionally, a disciple of Confucius (551–479 B.C.) developed a five-element system that further contributed to these foundational ideas.[53.1] The formal establishment of biogeochemistry as a distinct scientific discipline began in the early 20th century, particularly with the work of Vladimir Ivanovich Vernadsky (1863–1945), who is often regarded as the founder of the field. His influential book, Essays on Geochemistry and the Biosphere (1926), examined the interactions between biological and geological processes, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of biogeochemistry.[60.1] Biogeochemistry is a very recent branch of the natural sciences, emerging from the evolution of chemistry from alchemy in the 18th century, which subsequently led to the development of geochemistry in the 19th century and biogeochemistry in the 20th century.[62.1] This field focuses on the study of biogeochemical cycles, particularly the cycles of chemical elements such as carbon and nitrogen, and their interactions with and incorporation into living organisms transported through earth-scale biological systems over time and space.[55.1] The term "biosphere" was first introduced by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1802, and the concept continued to evolve throughout the 19th century as various scientists contributed to its development.[55.1] Notably, the relationship between organic life and its chemical products was significantly advanced by Dumas and Boussingault in their 1844 paper, which is recognized as an important milestone in the evolution of biogeochemistry.[55.1] The development of biogeochemistry as a distinct scientific discipline occurred primarily in the 20th century, emerging from the integration of biology, geology, and chemistry. This evolution can be traced back to the 18th century when chemistry began to separate from alchemy, leading to the establishment of geochemistry in the 19th century and culminating in biogeochemistry in the 20th century.[62.1] Key aspects of biogeochemistry's development include early studies on metabolic processes such as photosynthesis and respiration, as well as the decomposition and metabolism of nitrogen and sulfur.[63.1] These investigations paved the way for new concepts, including the noosphere, introduced by LeRoy in 1927 and further developed by Vernadsky in 1945, and sociogeochemistry, conceptualized by Hanya and Akiyama in 1987.[63.1] The historical progression of biogeochemistry illustrates how the interplay between biological and geological processes has shaped our understanding of the natural world.[54.1]Development Through the 18th and 19th Centuries
During the last decade, significant progress has been made in understanding global biogeochemical cycles through various advancements in organic geochemical study. These advancements have revealed numerous key problems within the global carbon cycle that are amenable to investigation using organic geochemical techniques.[57.1] This ongoing research highlights the critical role that organic geochemistry plays in addressing complex environmental questions related to biogeochemical processes.[57.1] Moreover, the analysis of marine mercury biogeochemical cycles provided critical insights into mercury cycling, particularly through the examination of seawater samples collected during extensive oceanographic cruises over the past three decades. These studies have significantly enhanced our understanding of how mercury interacts within marine ecosystems and its broader implications for biogeochemical cycles.[58.1] Additionally, the explosion of microbial genome sequencing data during this time contributed to the recognition of microbes as essential biogeochemical engineers of life on Earth. This advancement allowed scientists to explore the evolutionary pathways of microbial machinery and their interactions, which are crucial for regulating biogeochemical processes.[59.1]Key Biogeochemical Cycles
Carbon Cycle
The carbon cycle is a fundamental biogeochemical process that plays a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance and health. It involves the movement and transformation of carbon among the atmosphere, terrestrial ecosystems, and oceans, influencing various ecological and climatic processes. Forests, which cover approximately 30% of the global land surface, are integral to the carbon cycle, acting as significant carbon sinks that store carbon accrued from the initial stages of forest ecosystem succession.[98.1] Human activities have significantly impacted the nitrogen cycle, a crucial biogeochemical process that plays a pivotal role in maintaining ecosystem balance. The production of food, transportation, and energy for a global population of seven billion has led to widespread increases in the use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers and fossil fuel combustion, resulting in nitrogen leakage into the environment as various forms of air and water pollution.[108.1] This alteration of the nitrogen cycle is more severe than that of the carbon cycle, highlighting the profound effects of human activities on environmental health.[108.1] Agricultural practices involving excessive fertilizer application and industrial emissions contribute to nitrogen imbalances, which have significant implications for climate change and ecosystem stability.[107.1] Moreover, the carbon cycle interacts closely with the nitrogen cycle, shaping ecosystem responses to global changes. The interactions between these cycles are critical for understanding the implications of environmental changes on biodiversity and ecosystem functionality.[109.1] For instance, carbon uptake and storage in ecosystems are positively correlated with plant diversity, indicating that diverse plant communities can enhance carbon sequestration.[97.1] Conversely, climate extremes, such as droughts and storms, can negatively impact carbon stocks in ecosystems, further complicating the dynamics of the carbon cycle.[101.1]Nitrogen Cycle
The nitrogen cycle is a crucial biogeochemical cycle that involves the movement and transformation of nitrogen through various environmental compartments, including the atmosphere, terrestrial ecosystems, and aquatic systems. Human activities have significantly altered the nitrogen cycle, primarily through the extensive use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers and fossil fuel combustion. These practices have led to increased nitrogen leakage into the environment, resulting in various forms of air and water pollution, which have profound impacts on ecosystem health and diversity.[104.1] One of the most significant adverse effects of nitrogen cycle disruption is the loss of plant diversity in terrestrial ecosystems and the proliferation of algal blooms in aquatic environments. These algal blooms can create oxygen-deficient 'dead zones,' which are detrimental to aquatic life due to nitrogen-induced eutrophication and acidification.[99.1] Furthermore, the alterations in nitrogen dynamics are closely linked to climate change, as global warming affects nitrogen availability and distribution, thereby impacting both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.[103.1] The nitrogen cycle, a fundamental biogeochemical cycle, has been significantly modified by anthropogenic activities and environmental changes at various scales, including individual organisms, ecosystems, local landscapes, continental regions, and global systems.[103.1] These alterations have drastically affected the structures and functions of both natural and agricultural ecosystems in terrestrial and aquatic environments.[103.1] A biogeochemical cycle, such as the nitrogen cycle, refers to the movement and transformation of chemical elements and compounds between living organisms, the atmosphere, and the Earth’s crust, which is essential for the cycling and recycling of nutrients necessary for life.[118.1] Understanding these changes is crucial, as they influence the availability of essential nutrients and have broader implications for environmental health and ecosystem stability.[118.1] Research into biogeochemical transformations, including those within the nitrogen cycle, relies on a combination of laboratory and field data, as well as statistical modeling. Institutions like the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) are at the forefront of this research, utilizing advanced analytical techniques to better understand nitrogen dynamics and their ecological implications.[120.1]In this section:
Recent Advancements
Emerging Research Trends
Recent advancements in biogeochemistry have highlighted several emerging research trends that are reshaping our understanding of ecological and environmental processes. One significant area of focus is the genetic approaches to studying dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) metabolism and dimethylsulfide (DMS) production in marine microorganisms. These studies are revealing insights into the evolutionary processes of these compounds, their distribution in oceanic environments, and their roles in the biogeochemical cycling of sulfur in marine ecosystems.[128.1] Additionally, the integration of multidisciplinary perspectives has proven beneficial for exploring diverse topics such as niche definition, the evolution of symbiotic interactions, and prokaryotic biogeography in the deep ocean. This integrative approach underscores the rapid progress being made in biogeochemistry, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various biological and geological processes.[129.1] Research on mercury biogeochemistry, particularly in Arctic permafrost ecosystems, has also gained prominence. The phenomenon of Arctic amplification has led to significant permafrost degradation, which in turn affects hydrological processes and the cycling of mercury. Recent studies have quantified mercury concentrations in aquatic systems across extensive permafrost transects, highlighting the influence of regional biogeochemical factors on mercury production.[131.1] Moreover, the implementation of the Minamata Convention on Mercury is supported by recent scientific advances that enhance our understanding of mercury cycling and its impacts on both human health and ecosystems.[132.1] This reflects a growing recognition of the importance of policy-relevant research in addressing environmental challenges. The interplay between permafrost thawing and mercury release is another critical area of investigation. Thawing permafrost not only releases mercury, which is stored in these frozen systems, but also alters local and global biogeochemical cycles. Studies predict that by 2200, emissions of mercury from thawing permafrost could rival current global anthropogenic emissions under high greenhouse gas scenarios.[144.1] This underscores the urgent need for further research to understand the implications of permafrost degradation on ecosystem health and climate change. The role of microbial symbioses in biogeochemical cycles is increasingly recognized as vital for ecosystem processes. These interactions, particularly those involving cyanobacteria, are instrumental in shaping biogeochemical cycles, especially in the cycling of essential elements such as nitrogen and phosphorus. Cyanobacteria, through their nitrogen-fixing abilities, convert inert nitrogen gas into bioavailable forms, thereby supporting the growth of other organisms and promoting biodiversity.[138.1] Recent investigations have highlighted the significance of dimethylsulfide (DMS) and its precursor dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) in marine biogeochemical processes. The cycling of DMS and DMSP in the surface ocean is closely linked to fundamental food web processes, with DMSP being produced almost exclusively by photoautotrophic eukaryotes.[153.1] Furthermore, the emission of DMS drives the formation of atmospheric aerosols that contribute to climate cooling, underscoring the interconnectedness of these microbial processes with broader climate feedback mechanisms.[154.1]Technological Innovations in Biogeochemistry
Recent advancements in biogeochemistry have significantly influenced the understanding and management of environmental pollutants, particularly mercury. The Minamata Convention on Mercury, an international treaty aimed at reducing mercury emissions and protecting human health and the environment, has benefited from recent scientific advancements in understanding mercury's biogeochemical cycling and its impacts on ecosystems. These advancements include improved measurement methods and a deeper understanding of the processes governing the fate and transport of mercury in the environment, which are crucial for effective monitoring and regulation of mercury emissions.[135.1] In the past decade, there has been rapid development in mercury (Hg) stable isotope biogeochemistry, which provides a valuable tool for quantifying Hg sources and studying transformation processes.[136.1] This advancement is significant for enhancing the effectiveness of monitoring and regulating mercury emissions, particularly in relation to the Minamata Convention on Mercury. Furthermore, the establishment of the Asia-Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network in 2017 has contributed to improved international collaboration in tracking mercury levels across various regions.[136.1] The advancement of biogeochemistry is significantly enhanced by the development and strengthening of interdisciplinary ties among biology, geology, chemistry, and social sciences. This integration facilitates better incorporation of mechanisms, including contemporary evolutionary adaptations, which are essential for predicting changes in biogeochemical cycles.[150.1] Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of utilizing insights from social sciences to foster sustainable and equitable societal responses to environmental challenges.[150.1] By leveraging data from long-term monitoring sites across diverse terrestrial, aquatic, and human systems, researchers can model biogeochemical changes more effectively, thereby informing policy frameworks and enhancing the effectiveness of international agreements, such as the Minamata Convention, particularly in addressing emerging challenges related to mercury pollution.[150.1]Interdisciplinary Connections
Relationship with Ecology
The relationship between biogeochemistry and ecology is fundamentally rooted in the mutual interactions between biotic and abiotic components of the Earth system. Biogeochemistry serves as a critical interdisciplinary field that explores these interactions, focusing on the physical, chemical, geological, and biological processes that govern biogeochemical cycles essential for sustaining life on Earth.[170.1] This integration is vital for understanding how ecological systems function and respond to environmental changes. Biogeochemical cycles, which include the movement and transformation of essential elements such as carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and water, are pivotal in maintaining ecosystem balance.[182.1] These cycles ensure the continuous availability of nutrients necessary for biological organisms, thereby supporting ecosystem productivity.[181.1] For instance, nitrogen is often a limiting nutrient in many ecosystems, and its availability is crucial for plant growth and overall ecosystem health.[181.1] The interdisciplinary nature of biogeochemistry is crucial, as it involves the collaboration of specialists from various fields, including physicists and molecular biologists, who seek to understand complex processes such as climate dynamics and gene expression related to biochemical pathways.[176.1] Human activities, including pollution, deforestation, and industrial processes, significantly impact biochemical cycling by altering the natural flow and balance of essential nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus.[180.1] These disruptions can lead to serious ecological issues, such as climate change, eutrophication, and soil degradation, which ultimately affect ecosystems and biodiversity.[180.1] The BioGeoSCAPES initiative exemplifies the importance of interdisciplinary connections in biogeochemistry, as it combines omics approaches, modeling, and various scales of study to enhance our understanding of ecological processes.[169.1] By integrating insights from social sciences, biogeochemistry can also address sustainability challenges, highlighting the role of ecological systems in societal responses to environmental issues.[173.1] Thus, the relationship between biogeochemistry and ecology is not only foundational for scientific inquiry but also essential for developing sustainable practices in response to a rapidly changing Earth system.Links to Geochemistry and Earth Sciences
The interplay between biogeochemistry and geochemistry is critical for understanding Earth's climate systems and the broader implications of anthropogenic activities. Anthropogenic CO2 emissions are significantly altering the marine carbon cycle, which in turn affects the regulation of Earth's climate on a planetary scale. This disruption is particularly evident in the life cycles of calcifying organisms, which are integral to biogeochemical processes.[191.1] Ocean circulation plays a pivotal role in connecting ocean basins and influencing global climate and biogeochemical cycles. The Southern Ocean, for instance, is crucial for linking deep and shallow ocean layers, thereby affecting the overall dynamics of ocean circulation.[192.1] Changes in ocean circulation, driven by increasing CO2 levels and climate change, are projected to impact primary production and ecosystem dynamics, as well as the exchange of CO2 across the air-sea boundary.[193.1] Moreover, the rising levels of CO2 due to human activities have led to ocean acidification, which is hypothesized to hinder biotic calcification and reduce the export of total alkalinity as carbonate minerals. This phenomenon represents a negative feedback mechanism on atmospheric CO2 levels, illustrating the complex interactions between biogeochemical cycles and climate change.[194.1] Advancements in climate modeling, particularly through the integration of Earth System models that incorporate various biogeochemical cycles, are essential for predicting future climate scenarios. These models enhance our understanding of the intricate relationships between physical processes and biogeochemical cycles, which are critical for accurate environmental predictions.[206.1] Additionally, the role of mesoscale eddies in the Southern Ocean exemplifies how specific physical phenomena can significantly influence global climate and biogeochemical cycles.[207.1] Marine microbial activities are essential for fueling biogeochemical cycles that significantly impact the climate. However, many global models fail to adequately account for the diverse physiological processes performed by these microbes.[208.1] Additionally, nitrogen limitation is a common issue in terrestrial ecosystems, creating feedbacks between aboveground and belowground biogeochemical cycles. A novel analysis has shown that the explicit versus implicit representation of soil microbial activity can influence ecosystem carbon and nitrogen fluxes within a global biogeochemical model.[209.1] Understanding these dynamics is crucial for enhancing climate models and improving our comprehension of ecosystem interactions.Applications And Implications
Environmental Management
Biogeochemistry is a scientific discipline that investigates the interactions between living organisms and the physical and chemical aspects of the environment, integrating principles from biology, geology, chemistry, and environmental science to understand the processes governing the cycling of elements and compounds in ecosystems.[210.1] This field specifically focuses on biogeochemical cycles, such as those of carbon and nitrogen, and examines their interactions with living organisms, highlighting the transport of these elements through earth-scale biological systems over time and space.[211.1] As a relatively recent development in science, biogeochemistry incorporates a wealth of scientific knowledge, research methodologies, and models that link biological, chemical, and earth sciences, establishing a strong theoretical foundation while remaining dynamically interconnected with other scientific disciplines.[212.1] Furthermore, biogeochemistry is characterized by its mutual interactions between biology and chemistry within the Earth system, positioning it as a vital component of the broader discipline of geobiology.[213.1] This well-developed field is supported by a dedicated journal and textbook, with numerous publications contributing to its ongoing research and application in environmental science.[213.1] Interdisciplinary research in biogeochemistry has significant implications for understanding local and global fluxes of carbon and other elements, which can inform environmental policies aimed at mitigating climate change.[214.1] For instance, the intricate relationships between the Earth's surface, atmosphere, and life forms have been instrumental in guiding global policy decisions regarding greenhouse gas emissions and climate change mitigation strategies.[214.1] Microorganisms, particularly bacteria, play a crucial role in biogeochemical cycles, which are pathways through which chemical elements like nitrogen, carbon, sulfur, and phosphorus circulate between living organisms and their non-living environment.[252.1] These microbes are primarily responsible for converting inorganic matter into organic forms, thereby facilitating nutrient availability for living organisms and maintaining ecosystem stability.[252.1] Bacteria are essential in the nitrogen cycle, as they convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms for plants and animals, significantly influencing the cycling of key elements necessary for various biological processes.[253.1] Additionally, plants are integral to biogeochemical cycles; they recycle matter and enhance nutrient availability through processes such as transpiration and by hosting nitrogen-fixing bacteria.[254.1] The role of plants is particularly critical in linking global changes to the status of nitrogen and phosphorus in ecosystems, underscoring their importance in Earth's biogeochemical cycles.[255.1]Climate Change and Sustainability
Interdisciplinary research in biogeochemistry is essential for understanding the intricate relationships between the Earth's surface, atmosphere, and living organisms, particularly in the context of climate change and sustainability. This field provides valuable insights into local and global fluxes of carbon and other elements, which can inform environmental policies aimed at mitigating the effects of greenhouse gases and addressing global climate change.[216.1] The unfolding climate crisis is fundamentally a human issue, driven by anthropogenic emissions of CO2, and it necessitates a concerted effort across all sectors of society to develop effective solutions.[217.1] Expanding the scope of biogeochemical research is crucial, as it can lead to more rigorous and impactful strategies for climate change mitigation and adaptation.[217.1] Human activities have significantly impacted the carbon and nitrogen cycles, particularly since the Industrial Revolution approximately 150 years ago. The burning of fossil fuels and deforestation have contributed to the rise of carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, affecting the carbon cycle through both emissions and the management of carbon sinks, such as forests and farmland.[222.1] Additionally, agricultural and industrial nitrogen inputs have exceeded natural nitrogen fixation, leading to substantial alterations in the global nitrogen cycle over the past century.[219.1] These anthropogenic inputs have resulted in various environmental issues, including freshwater eutrophication, biodiversity loss, and climate change, with nitrogen pollution contributing to 15% of global biodiversity loss and exacerbating coastal zone dead zones.[221.1] The interactions between the nitrogen and carbon cycles are crucial in shaping ecosystem responses to global change, although uncertainties remain regarding the global distribution of nitrogen availability and its role in biogeochemical interactions with the climate system.[223.1] Moreover, the coupling of carbon and nitrogen cycles is critical for understanding ecosystem responses to global change. Increased nitrogen availability can enhance net primary productivity (NPP), which may offset the higher costs of plant respiration, thus influencing biosphere-atmosphere interactions.[224.1] Therefore, process-based models that consider the linkages between these cycles are necessary for predicting the impacts of global change on ecosystems and informing effective climate policies.[224.1] Effective communication of biogeochemical cycles to policymakers is essential for enhancing their understanding and support for sustainable practices. Recent research indicates that model output presented in the form of simple visualizations is a highly effective communication tool between scientists and policymakers, facilitating clarity regarding complex biogeochemical processes.[235.1] The biogeochemical cycles of various elements are interconnected across air, land, and water, and human activities—including industrial production, transportation, agriculture, urbanization, and domestic waste management—disrupt these natural cycles, leading to significant and often undesirable environmental consequences.[237.1] Therefore, it is crucial to convey the implications of these disruptions to policymakers to foster informed decision-making and promote sustainability initiatives.In this section:
Earth SciencesEnvironmental PoliciesGlobal PolicyGreenhouse Gas EmissionsClimate Change Mitigation
Challenges And Future Directions
Human Impact on Biogeochemical Cycles
Human activities have profoundly impacted biogeochemical cycles, primarily through the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) from fossil fuel combustion, which alters atmospheric composition and affects oceanic and ecological systems. These changes are projected to persist or intensify throughout the century, underscoring the need for advanced biogeochemical predictive modeling to understand and anticipate future environmental conditions.[257.1] [256.1] To address these impacts, research must focus on key questions that drive biogeochemical studies, such as the mechanisms controlling nitrogen (N) loss and retention in ecosystems, the dynamics of nitrogen fixation and denitrification, and the effects of temporal and spatial scales on biogeochemical processes.[258.1] Interdisciplinary collaboration among biology, geology, chemistry, and social sciences is crucial for enhancing our understanding of biogeochemical cycles. This approach can improve predictions by incorporating evolutionary adaptations and utilizing data from long-term monitoring sites.[259.1] The role of biogeochemistry in tackling environmental challenges depends on making biogeochemical knowledge accessible to policymakers and educators. This includes predicting biosphere changes due to climate change and human activities over various time scales and supporting sustainable societal responses.[260.1] Satellite-based remote sensing is vital for detecting landscape-level changes, providing insights into how human activities affect global water chemistry. Integrating geospatial sciences with biogeochemistry is essential for comprehending human impacts on these cycles.[261.1] Additionally, remote sensing technologies enhance marine exploration capabilities, allowing for comprehensive oceanographic profiling relevant to biogeochemistry.[262.1]Strategies for Mitigation and Adaptation
The integration of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) into biogeochemical research presents significant opportunities for enhancing our understanding of the Earth system and addressing environmental challenges. For instance, the group "Adapting Machine Learning for the Earth System" at the Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry focuses on utilizing machine learning methods to elucidate the complex relationships between weather, climate, and terrestrial vegetation.[263.1] This approach allows researchers to simulate various scenarios aimed at mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change, thereby fostering a deeper comprehension of the interdependencies between Earth and climate systems.[264.1] Moreover, the combination of physics and machine learning models is anticipated to yield improved performance and generalizations, while also ensuring the consistency and credibility of the findings.[265.1] This integration is crucial for developing robust strategies that can effectively address the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change. In addition to technological advancements, effective communication of biogeochemical concepts to non-experts, particularly policymakers and educators, is essential for the successful implementation of mitigation and adaptation strategies. A significant barrier is that many scientists lack training in communicating their research to policymakers. To overcome this, it is recommended that scientists receive training in effective communication and engage with platforms that facilitate dialogue with policymakers.[282.1] Collaborating with science communicators can also help translate complex scientific knowledge into accessible language, making it easier for non-experts to understand and apply this information in their decision-making processes.[282.1] Effective communication of scientific concepts, particularly in the context of climate change mitigation and environmental management, requires the use of clear language and nontechnical terms whenever possible. Researchers should aim to define any necessary jargon to enhance understanding and minimize confusion, using as few words as possible to convey health messages or scientific concepts.[284.1] Additionally, it is crucial to strategically select moments for engagement with policymakers, as this increases the likelihood that scientific ideas will resonate with decision-makers.[283.1] Engaging non-expert audiences through informal discussions can also improve communication skills, making it easier to convey complex information effectively.[283.1] By implementing these strategies, scientists can significantly enhance their communication efforts and facilitate the integration of scientific knowledge into policy and practice.In this section:
References
[3] 1.1: What is biogeochemistry? - Geosciences LibreTexts — In summary, biogeochemistry is a multidisciplinary field that integrates biology, geology, chemistry, and environmental science to unravel the complex web of interactions between living organisms and their environment, with a focus on the cycling of elements and compounds crucial for life.
[4] Biogeochemistry - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics — Biogeochemistry encompasses all types of chemicals. Nitrification, the conversion of ammonia to nitrate, by bacteria in soils is a biogeochemical process. So is the reduction of sulfate to sulfide by bacteria in groundwater. ... The purpose of this article is to present an overview of biogeochemical modeling. A thorough review of this subject
[5] Biogeochemistry - Wikipedia — In particular, biogeochemistry is the study of biogeochemical cycles, the cycles of chemical elements such as carbon and nitrogen, and their interactions with and incorporation into living things transported through earth scale biological systems in space and time. This relationship between the cycles of organic life and their chemical products was further expanded upon by Dumas and Boussingault in a 1844 paper that is considered an important milestone in the development of biogeochemistry. Jean-Baptiste Lamarck first used the term biosphere in 1802, and others continued to develop the concept throughout the 19th century. Early climate research by scientists like Charles Lyell, John Tyndall, and Joseph Fourier began to link glaciation, weathering, and climate.
[6] Biogeochemistry - SpringerLink — Biogeochemistry is the scientific discipline that explores the physical, chemical, biological, and geological processes that control the composition of and changes to Earth's surface environments. Introduction. ... Summary. Biogeochemistry and the science of global change. As Earth enters the Anthropocene (the epoch in which humans have
[7] Biogeochemistry - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics — Abstract. Biogeochemistry can be defined as the mutual interactions (two-way) between the biology and chemistry of the Earth system, and as such is clearly an important component of the broader discipline of geobiology. It is a well-developed field, having a dedicated journal and textbook, and many hundreds of publications appearing in the scientific literature each year.
[8] 1.1: What is biogeochemistry? - Geosciences LibreTexts — Biogeochemistry is the scientific discipline that explores the interactions between living organisms and the physical and chemical aspects of the environment. It is a field that combines principles from biology, geology, chemistry, and environmental science to study the processes that govern the cycling of elements and compounds in ecosystems.
[9] Biogeochemistry Definition & Meaning | Merriam-Webster Medical — The meaning of BIOGEOCHEMISTRY is a science that deals with the relation of earth chemicals to plant and animal life in an area.
[10] Biogeochemical Cycles - National Climate Assessment — Human activities have greatly increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere and nitrogen levels in the biosphere. Altered biogeochemical cycles combined with climate change increase the vulnerability of biodiversity, food security, human health, and water quality to a changing climate.
[11] The impacts of climate change and human activities on biogeochemical ... — If the projected warming and wetting continues, the future biogeochemical cycles will be more complicated. So facing research in this field is an ongoing challenge of integrating field observations with process-based ecosystem models to predict the impacts of future climate change and human activities at various temporal and spatial scales.
[12] Biogeochemistry, Climate, and Interactions with Other Factors — Human induced acceleration of the nitrogen and phosphorus cycles already causes widespread freshwater and marine eutrophication, 8, 9, 10 a problem that is expected to worsen under a warming climate. 9, 11, 12 Without efforts to reduce future climate change and to slow the acceleration of biogeochemical cycles, existing climate changes will
[13] Biogeochemical cycles - (Intro to Environmental Science ... - Fiveable — Restoring balance in disrupted biogeochemical cycles requires a multifaceted approach. Implementing sustainable agricultural practices, such as crop rotation and organic farming, can reduce nutrient runoff into waterways. ... promoting renewable energy sources can mitigate fossil fuel emissions. Educating communities about conservation efforts
[14] Biogeochemical Cycles | Impact, Balance & Sustainability — Biogeochemical Cycles | Impact, Balance & Sustainability Mechanics Wave Mechanics First Law of Thermodynamics Third Law of Thermodynamics Explore the intricacies of biogeochemical cycles, which crucially link Earth’s biological, geological, and chemical components, essential for environmental sustainability. Understanding Biogeochemical Cycles: The Cornerstones of Environmental Sustainability Let’s dive deep into the mechanisms of these cycles, their impact, and why maintaining their balance is crucial for sustainability. These impacts underscore the delicate balance required in biogeochemical cycles and highlight the need for sustainable practices that minimize human disruptions to these natural processes. Recognizing the critical role of these cycles, taking steps to minimize disturbances through sustainable practices, and educating communities are essential actions towards maintaining the balance of our planet’s life-support systems.
[16] Biogeochemical Cycling | U.S. Geological Survey - USGS.gov — Climate, geology, hydrology, ecosystems, and human activities all affect this cycling. The Ecosystems Land Change Science Program applies multidisciplinary research to document long-term patterns and drivers of biogeochemical cycling and support developing sustainable management plans
[19] Biogeochemical Cycle - Definition, Importance, Examples — Geological Factors: Geological processes, such as weathering, erosion, and volcanic activity, can influence the release and availability of nutrients from rocks and minerals. The geological composition of a region determines the types and quantities of nutrients available for biogeochemical cycling.
[20] Drivers of the global phosphorus cycle over geological time — Phosphorus is a key limiting nutrient for primary productivity in terrestrial ecosystems 3,4,5, and is considered to be the ultimate limiting nutrient for marine primary production on geological
[53] The evolution of biogeochemistry: revisited | Biogeochemistry - Springer — This in part, is one of the key reasons for writing this paper, to examine how the origins of this field came into existence, and how they link with the evolution and development of the discipline since the geochemist/mineralogist, Vladimir Ivanovich Vernadsky (1863–1945), the founder of Biogeochemistry, published his provocative book entitled Essays on Geochemistry and the Biosphere (Vernadsky 1926). Perhaps the earliest example of linking organic and inorganic substances with large earthly cycles, the rudiments of biogeochemistry, can in part, be traced to Empedocles (483–424 B.C.), who divided the physical universe into air, water, fire, and earth, as well as a disciple of Confucius (551–479 B.C.), who developed the five universal element system (Browne 1944; Russell 1945; Degens 1989).
[54] Biogeochemistry: Its Origins and Development - JSTOR — Key words: biogeochemistry, cycles, history, origins Abstract. The history of how aspects of biology, geology and chemistry came together over the past three centuries to form a separate discipline known as biogeochemistry is described under four major headings: metabolic aspects, geochemical aspects, biogeochemical cycles, and the origin of life.
[55] Biogeochemistry - Wikipedia — In particular, biogeochemistry is the study of biogeochemical cycles, the cycles of chemical elements such as carbon and nitrogen, and their interactions with and incorporation into living things transported through earth scale biological systems in space and time. This relationship between the cycles of organic life and their chemical products was further expanded upon by Dumas and Boussingault in a 1844 paper that is considered an important milestone in the development of biogeochemistry. Jean-Baptiste Lamarck first used the term biosphere in 1802, and others continued to develop the concept throughout the 19th century. Early climate research by scientists like Charles Lyell, John Tyndall, and Joseph Fourier began to link glaciation, weathering, and climate.
[57] Global biogeochemical cycles: progress and problems — Progress in understanding global biogeochemical cycles has been made on many fronts of organic geochemical study over the last decade. ... of the global carbon cycle present a number of key problems that are amenable to investigation using organic geochemical techniques. In the following section, I will identify and discuss what I feel are the
[58] Mercury Biogeochemical Cycling: A Synthesis of Recent Scientific Advances — 2.5. Advances in understanding the marine mercury biogeochemical cycle. In this special issue, Bowman et al. (2020) highlight insights on Hg cycling gained from analysis of seawater sampled during cruises over the last three decades, especially those that cut large swaths across major ocean basins and biogeochemical features. These efforts have
[59] The Microbial Engines That Drive Earth's Biogeochemical Cycles — The explosion of microbial genome sequence data and increasingly detailed analyses of the structures of key machines has yielded insight into how microbes became the biogeochemical engineers of life on Earth.Nevertheless, a grand challenge in science is to decipher how the ensemble of the core microbially derived machines evolved and how they interact, and the mechanisms regulating their
[60] The evolution of biogeochemistry: revisited | Biogeochemistry - Springer — This in part, is one of the key reasons for writing this paper, to examine how the origins of this field came into existence, and how they link with the evolution and development of the discipline since the geochemist/mineralogist, Vladimir Ivanovich Vernadsky (1863–1945), the founder of Biogeochemistry, published his provocative book entitled Essays on Geochemistry and the Biosphere (Vernadsky 1926). Perhaps the earliest example of linking organic and inorganic substances with large earthly cycles, the rudiments of biogeochemistry, can in part, be traced to Empedocles (483–424 B.C.), who divided the physical universe into air, water, fire, and earth, as well as a disciple of Confucius (551–479 B.C.), who developed the five universal element system (Browne 1944; Russell 1945; Degens 1989).
[62] Biogeochemistry: Historical and Future Perspectives — Editorial. Biogeochemistry is a very recent branch on the "tree" of natural sciences, where chemistry emerged from Alchemy in the 18 th century, leading to Geochemistry in the 19 th and to Biogeochemistry in the 20 th century . While chemistry deals with the understanding of substances, the focus of geochemistry is the earth crust and the cycling of elements.
[63] Biogeochemistry: Its Origins and Development - JSTOR — Major aspects of the development of biogeochemistry relate to early, diverse studies of - photosynthesis and respiration, - decomposition, - the metabolism of nitrogen and sulfur, ... that scientists in the twentieth century have been led to new concepts of the no6sphere (LeRoy 1927; Vernadsky 1945) and sociogeochemistry (Hanya & Akiyama 1987
[97] Interaction Between Climate Change, the Carbon Cycle, and Biodiversity ... — First, experiments and measurements show that carbon uptake and carbon storage substantially increase with diversity (Figure 13.1, Tilman et al., 2014). Second, the diversity of plant species in a basin strongly affects watershed-scale evapotranspiration in natural ecosystems (Figure 13.2, Anderegg et al., 2018). Figure 13.2.
[98] Biodiversity and anthropogenic disturbances predominantly drive carbon ... — Forests cover approximately 30% of the global land surface and are integral to the global carbon cycle. Yet, global warming and human-driven environmental changes pose threats to nearly half of the world's tree species (Cuni-Sanchez et al., 2021; Liang et al., 2016).Carbon storage in forests represents the total amount of carbon accrued from the initial stages of forest ecosystem succession to
[99] Impacts of nitrogen emissions on ecosystems and human health: A mini ... — The best quantified adverse impacts include: (i) the loss of plant diversity in terrestrial ecosystems and excess algal growth in aquatic ecosystems, leading to oxygen-deficient 'dead zones', by N-induced eutrophication and acidification and (ii) human health impacts due to increased concentrations of nitrogen dioxide, NO x-induced ozone
[101] Climate extremes and the carbon cycle - Nature — The effects of climate extremes such as droughts or storms on the carbon cycle of ecosystems are investigated; such extremes can decrease regional carbon stocks.
[103] Nitrogen cycles in terrestrial ecosystems: climate change impacts and ... — The nitrogen (N) cycle and N balance have primarily been modified by anthropogenic activities and environmental changes at various scales, including biological individual, ecosystem, local landscape, continental region, and global. These modifications have drastically affected the structures and functions of natural and agricultural ecosystems in terrestrial and aquatic areas. In this
[104] The role of nitrogen in climate change and the impacts of nitrogen ... — Producing food, transportation, and energy for seven billion people has led to large and widespread increases in the use of synthetic nitrogen (N) fertilizers and fossil fuel combustion, resulting in a leakage of N into the environment as various forms of air and water pollution. The global N cycle is more severely altered by human activity than the global carbon (C) cycle, and reactive N
[107] Nitrogen Cycle: Impacts And Environmental Consequences — The nitrogen cycle, a crucial biogeochemical process, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. Human activities have significantly impacted this cycle, leading to profound effects on environmental health. Agricultural practices involving excessive fertilizer application, industrial emissions, and fossil fuel combustion all contribute to nitrogen imbalances. These
[108] Nitrogen-climate interactions and impacts - Springer — Producing food, transportation, and energy for seven billion people has led to large and widespread increases in the use of synthetic nitrogen (N) fertilizers and fossil fuel combustion, resulting in a leakage of N into the environment as various forms of air and water pollution. The global N cycle is more severely altered by human activity than the global carbon (C) cycle, and reactive N
[109] Terrestrial nitrogen-carbon cycle interactions at the global scale — Interactions between the terrestrial nitrogen (N) and carbon (C) cycles shape the response of ecosystems to global change. However, the global distribution of nitrogen availability and its importance in global biogeochemistry and biogeochemical interactions with the climate system remain uncertain.
[118] Biogeochemical Cycle - Definition, Importance, Examples — A biogeochemical cycle, also known as a nutrient cycle, refers to the movement and transformation of chemical elements and compounds between living organisms, the atmosphere, and the Earth’s crust. In summary, biogeochemical cycles are vital processes that involve the movement and transformation of nutrients and elements between living organisms and their environment. A biogeochemical cycle is the movement and transformation of chemical elements and compounds between living organisms, the atmosphere, and the Earth’s crust, involving the cycling and recycling of nutrients and elements essential for life. A biogeochemical cycle is a pathway that describes the movement and transformation of elements and compounds through living organisms, the atmosphere, bodies of water, and the Earth’s crust. The main elements involved in biogeochemical cycles include carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, sulfur, and water.
[120] Biogeochemical Transformations - PNNL — Research related to biogeochemical transformations relies on both laboratory and field data, as well as statistical modeling for information about ecological processes. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a leader in biogeochemical transformations research with expertise in analytical capabilities, data visualization, and multiscale modeling. Through the 1,000 Soils Research Campaign, the Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory (EMSL) at PNNL seeks to analyze soils from watersheds across the nation and form a database of standardized measurements using EMSL’s mass spectrometry, tomography, and soil chemistry capabilities. In an effort to advance knowledge around soils and carbon cycling, a team with the Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory at PNNL is leading a research pilot called 1000 Soils.
[128] Influence of open ocean biogeochemistry on aerosol and clouds: Recent ... — Recent advances in genetic approaches to understand the processes of DMSP metabolism and DMS production are making it possible to study how they evolved in marine microorganisms (Bullock et al., 2017), how they distribute in the ocean (Teng et al., 2021), and how they are part of the biogeochemistry of ocean sulfur (Moran and Durham, 2019).
[129] Reuniting biogeochemistry with ecology and evolution | Science - AAAS — Other recent contributions highlight the usefulness of this integrative perspective for topics as diverse as niche definition , evolution of symbiotic interactions , and prokaryotic biogeography of the deep ocean . These varied multidisciplinary advancements do not in any way diminish the rapid and invaluable progress in biogeochemistry
[131] Recent advances in the study of mercury biogeochemistry in Arctic ... — A recent study quantified Hg concentrations in lakes and streams along a 1700 km long permafrost transect within the Interior Plains of northwestern Canada, highlighting the importance of regional biogeochemical factors, such as aromatic dissolved organic carbon (DOC), pH and Fe concentration, in the production of MMHg (Thompson et al., 2023a).
[132] Mercury Biogeochemical Cycling: A Synthesis of Recent Scientific Advances — The foundation for successful implementation of the Minamata Convention on Mercury is the use of recent policy relevant scientific advances that have furthered our understanding of Hg biogeochemical cycling and its impacts on humans and terrestrial and marine ecosystems (Bank, 2020). Sci. Adv 1, e1500675 10.1126/sciadv.1500675 [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar] Recent advances in understanding and measurement of Hg in the environment: Surface-atmosphere exchange of gaseous elemental mercury (Hg0). Science of The Total Environment 721, 137648 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.137648 [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar] Science of The Total Environment, 714, 136827 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.136827 [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar] Sci. Total Environ 716, 135386 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135386 [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar] Global Mercury Assessment 2013: Sources, emissions, releases, and environmental transport [Google Scholar] Sci Rep 8, 14465 10.1038/s41598-018-32760-0 [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
[135] Mercury biogeochemical cycling: A synthesis of recent scientific ... — The focus of this paper is to briefly discuss the major advances in scientific thinking regarding: a) processes governing the fate and transport of mercury in the environment; b) advances in measurement methods; and c) how these advances in knowledge fit in within the context of the Minamata Convention on Mercury.
[136] A review of global environmental mercury processes in response to human ... — The last 10 years has also seen rapid development in Hg stable isotope biogeochemistry, providing a valuable tool to quantify Hg sources and study transformation processes. ... Tørseth et al. 2012), and a new Asia-Pacific Mercury Monitoring Network (2017) and the ... JM, et al. Polar firn air reveals large-scale impact of anthropogenic
[138] Cyanobacteria: Oxygenation and Symbiosis in Earth's History — These interactions were instrumental in shaping biogeochemical cycles, particularly the cycling of essential elements such as nitrogen and phosphorus. Cyanobacteria, through their nitrogen-fixing abilities, transformed inert nitrogen gas into bioavailable forms, supporting the growth of other organisms and promoting biodiversity.
[144] Potential impacts of mercury released from thawing permafrost — Here we estimate potential future releases of Hg from thawing permafrost for low and high greenhouse gas emissions scenarios using a mechanistic model. By 2200, the high emissions scenario shows annual permafrost Hg emissions to the atmosphere comparable to current global anthropogenic emissions.
[150] Ideas and perspectives: Biogeochemistry - some key foci for the future — Technical notes the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License. the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License. Here, we refocus on how further developing and strengthening ties between biology, geology, chemistry, and social sciences will advance biogeochemistry through (1) better incorporation of mechanisms, including contemporary evolutionary adaptation, to predict changing biogeochemical cycles, and (2) implementing new and developing insights from social sciences to better understand how sustainable and equitable responses by society are achieved. Better development of interdisciplinary ties between biology, geology, and chemistry advances biogeochemistry through (1) better integration of contemporary (or rapid) evolutionary adaptation to predict changing biogeochemical cycles and (2) universal integration of data from long-term monitoring sites in terrestrial, aquatic, and human systems that span broad geographical regions for use in modeling. All site content, except where otherwise noted, is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
[153] New and important roles for DMSP in marine microbial communities — DMSP is produced almost exclusively by photoautotrohic eukaryotes and typically the largest pool of DMSP in seawater is in the size fraction >1 μm.The cycling of DMSP and its degradation products is intimately connected with fundamental food web processes in the euphotic zone (Fig. 1).As an intracellular osmolyte, DMSP is freely dissolved in the cytoplasm of phytoplankton and can be released
[154] The biogeochemistry of marine dimethylsulfide | Nature Reviews Earth ... — Dimethylsulfide is produced in the ocean, and its emission drives the formation of atmospheric aerosols that cool the climate. This Review discusses the production of dimethylsulfide, its
[169] BioGeoSCAPES — The BioGeoSCAPES effort relies upon the interdisciplinary connections of omics approaches, biogeochemistry, processes and rates, and modeling. BioGeoSCAPES will involve multiple scales of study from regional processes to ocean basin-scale, and include transects, process studies, time-series, and laboratory studies. The program aims to combine interdisciplinary (bio)-analytical capabilities to
[170] Biogeochemistry - Medical Geology - Wiley Online Library — Summary Biogeochemistry is a relatively new interdisciplinary field exploring the link between biotic and abiotic constituents. It investigates physical, chemical, geological, and biological reactions and processes that govern the biogeochemical cycles essential to sustain life on earth.
[173] Ideas and perspectives: Biogeochemistry - some key foci for the future — Technical notes the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License. the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License. Here, we refocus on how further developing and strengthening ties between biology, geology, chemistry, and social sciences will advance biogeochemistry through (1) better incorporation of mechanisms, including contemporary evolutionary adaptation, to predict changing biogeochemical cycles, and (2) implementing new and developing insights from social sciences to better understand how sustainable and equitable responses by society are achieved. Better development of interdisciplinary ties between biology, geology, and chemistry advances biogeochemistry through (1) better integration of contemporary (or rapid) evolutionary adaptation to predict changing biogeochemical cycles and (2) universal integration of data from long-term monitoring sites in terrestrial, aquatic, and human systems that span broad geographical regions for use in modeling. All site content, except where otherwise noted, is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
[176] Biogeochemistry and Its Complexity | SpringerLink — The interdisciplinary nature of biogeochemistry is important, as the subject is studied by different specialists; "for example, it is pursued by physicists who want to understand what determines Earth's climate, also by molecular biologists who want to understand what controls the gene expression for certain biochemical pathways, and by
[180] Biochemical Cycling: Definition & Examples | Vaia — Human activities impact biochemical cycling through pollution, deforestation, and industrial processes, altering the natural flow and balance of nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. These disruptions can lead to issues like climate change, eutrophication, and soil degradation, thereby affecting ecosystems and biodiversity.
[181] Biogeochemical Cycles Explained: Carbon, Nitrogen, Water — Biogeochemical cycles are the cornerstone of Earth's ecosystem, governing the movement of essential elements and compounds through biological, geological, and chemical processes. ... Nutrient Supply: Ensures the availability of nitrogen in usable forms for plants. Ecosystem Productivity: Nitrogen is a limiting nutrient in many ecosystems. 2.4
[182] Biogeochemical cycles - (Intro to Environmental Science ... - Fiveable — Biogeochemical cycles refer to the natural processes that recycle nutrients in various chemical forms from the environment to organisms and back again. These cycles are essential for maintaining ecosystem balance and support life by ensuring the continuous availability of vital elements such as carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and water. Through interactions between living organisms and Earth's
[191] Global Biogeochemical Cycles - AGU Publications — In summary, we contend that anthropogenic CO 2 emissions are quantifiably changing the processes by which the marine carbon cycle regulates Earth's climate on a planetary scale, likely by disrupting patterns in the life cycles of calcifying organisms.
[192] The global influence of localized dynamics in the Southern Ocean — The circulation of the Southern Ocean connects ocean basins, links the deep and shallow layers of the ocean, and has a strong influence on global ocean circulation, climate, biogeochemical cycles
[193] Climate Variability, Ocean Circulation, and Ecosystems — Increasing CO 2 and climate change are projected to have significant impacts on ocean circulation, primary production, biogeochemical cycling, and ecosystem dynamics. Changes to atmospheric forcing, the heat content in the upper ocean, changes in ocean circulation will have regional effects on the exchange of CO 2 across the air-sea boundary
[194] Biological Responses to Ocean Acidification Are Changing the Global ... — Increased oceanic uptake of CO 2 due to rising anthropogenic emissions has caused lowered pH levels (ocean acidification) that are hypothesized to diminish biotic calcification and reduce the export of total alkalinity (A T) as carbonate minerals from the surface ocean or their burial in coastal sediments.This "CO 2-biotic calcification feedback" is a negative feedback on atmospheric CO 2
[206] Advances and challenges in climate modeling | Climatic Change — However, some coupled general circulation models have been extended into Earth System models of intermediate or high complexity by including representation of various biogeochemical cycles (such as those involved in the carbon cycle), which will have an important impact on climate change in coming centuries.
[207] How Southern Ocean Currents Modulate Global Biogeochemical Cycles — Source: AGU Advances The Southern Ocean's role in global climate and biogeochemical cycles is significantly influenced by mesoscale eddies - rotating vortices of water that persist for months.
[208] Redox-informed models of global biogeochemical cycles - Nature — Marine microbial activities fuel biogeochemical cycles that impact the climate, but global models do not account for the myriad physiological processes that microbes perform. Here the authors
[209] Simulating Global Terrestrial Carbon and Nitrogen Biogeochemical Cycles ... — Nitrogen limitation of terrestrial ecosystems is common, and crates feedbacks between aboveground and belowground biogeochemical cycles. We present a novel analysis looking at how the explicit versus implicit representation of soil microbial activity influences ecosystem carbon and nitrogen fluxes in a global biogeochemical model.
[210] 1.1: What is biogeochemistry? - Geosciences LibreTexts — Biogeochemistry is the scientific discipline that explores the interactions between living organisms and the physical and chemical aspects of the environment. It is a field that combines principles from biology, geology, chemistry, and environmental science to study the processes that govern the cycling of elements and compounds in ecosystems.
[211] Biogeochemistry - Wikipedia — In particular, biogeochemistry is the study of biogeochemical cycles, the cycles of chemical elements such as carbon and nitrogen, and their interactions with and incorporation into living things transported through earth scale biological systems in space and time. This relationship between the cycles of organic life and their chemical products was further expanded upon by Dumas and Boussingault in a 1844 paper that is considered an important milestone in the development of biogeochemistry. Jean-Baptiste Lamarck first used the term biosphere in 1802, and others continued to develop the concept throughout the 19th century. Early climate research by scientists like Charles Lyell, John Tyndall, and Joseph Fourier began to link glaciation, weathering, and climate.
[212] Biogeochemistry and the Environment | SpringerLink — Biogeochemistry is a comparatively recently developed science, that incorporates scientific knowledge and findings, research methodologies, and models linking the biological, chemical, and earth sciences. Therefore, while it is a definitive science with a strong theoretical core, it is also dynamically and broadly interlinked with other sciences.
[213] Biogeochemistry - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics — Abstract. Biogeochemistry can be defined as the mutual interactions (two-way) between the biology and chemistry of the Earth system, and as such is clearly an important component of the broader discipline of geobiology. It is a well-developed field, having a dedicated journal and textbook, and many hundreds of publications appearing in the scientific literature each year.
[214] The role of biology in global climate change - PubMed Central (PMC) — The role of biology in global climate change: Interdisciplinary research in biogeochemistry can help to understand local and global fluxes of carbon and other elements and inform environmental policies - PMC Interdisciplinary research in biogeochemistry can help to understand local and global fluxes of carbon and other elements and inform environmental policies It has already yielded enough information about the intricate relationship between the Earth's surface, its atmosphere and life to guide global policy on a variety of key issues, in particular climate change and mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions. The policy makers, however, seem content with allowing fossil fuel emissions to be offset in national greenhouse gas inventories, so‐called net accounting, by using carbon credits generated in the land sector, including through changing forest management.
[216] The role of biology in global climate change: Interdisciplinary ... — Abstract Biogeochemistry aims to understand the flux of elements between life, the atmosphere and the Earth's surface. Its insights could inform international policies to mitigate the effects of greenhouse gases and global climate change.
[217] Expanding the scope of biogeochemical research to accelerate ... — The unfolding climate crisis is in many respects a human issue, one caused by anthropogenic emissions of CO2 to the atmosphere, and that can only be solved through a concerted effort across all sectors of society. In this prospective synthesis, I explain how expanding the scope of biogeochemical research would lead to a more rigorous and impactful climate change mitigation and adaptation
[219] Human impact on the nitrogen cycle - Wikipedia — Human impact on the nitrogen cycle is diverse. Agricultural and industrial nitrogen (N) inputs to the environment currently exceed inputs from natural N fixation. As a consequence of anthropogenic inputs, the global nitrogen cycle (Fig. 1) has been significantly altered over the past century.
[221] Consequences of human modification of the global nitrogen cycle — Many thresholds for human and ecosystem health have been exceeded owing to Nr pollution, including those for drinking water (nitrates), air quality (smog, particulate matter, ground-level ozone), freshwater eutrophication, biodiversity loss, stratospheric ozone depletion, climate change and coastal ecosystems (dead zones). Biodiversity loss: exceedance, 50% of the total area of biodiversity hot spots in which N deposition exceeds 5 kg N ha−1 yr−1; contribution of Nr, 15% of global biodiversity loss estimated to be due to Nr. Coastal zone dead zones: exceedance, 80% of large marine ecosystems (64 in total) ‘with a Nr problem’; contribution of Nr, 50% of global coastal zone pollution estimated to be due to Nr. Climate change: exceedance, 20% of the pre-industrial N2O concentration; contribution of Nr, net cooling of 15% due to all Nr impacts on drivers of radiative forcing.
[222] What Human Activities Affect The Carbon Cycle? - Sciencing — Since the Industrial Revolution approximately 150 years ago, human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation have begun to have an effect on the carbon cycle and the rise of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Human activities affect the carbon cycle through emissions of carbon dioxide (sources) and removal of carbon dioxide (sinks). The carbon cycle can be affected when carbon dioxide is either released into the atmosphere or removed from the atmosphere. Human activity in managing farmland or forests affects the amount of carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere by plants and trees. Human activity can affect the carbon cycle by capturing carbon dioxide and storing it underground rather than permitting it to be released into the atmosphere. Retrieved from https://www.sciencing.com/what-human-activities-affect-the-carbon-cycle-12083853/ https://www.sciencing.com/what-human-activities-affect-the-carbon-cycle-12083853/
[223] Terrestrial nitrogen-carbon cycle interactions at the global scale — Interactions between the terrestrial nitrogen (N) and carbon (C) cycles shape the response of ecosystems to global change. However, the global distribution of nitrogen availability and its importance in global biogeochemistry and biogeochemical interactions with the climate system remain uncertain.
[224] Interactions between carbon and nitrogen dynamics in estimating net ... — However, with the C and N cycles coupled, NPP increases because productivity that is due to increased N availability more than offsets the higher costs of plant respiration. Thus, to investigate how global change will affect biosphere-atmosphere interactions, process-based models need to consider linkages between the C and N cycles.
[235] Mercury biogeochemistry: Paradigm shifts, outstanding issues and ... — Recent research has also questioned the role that climate and climate change may play in the biogeochemical cycle of Hg (AMAP, 2011; Stern et al., ... model output in the form of simple visualizations is a very effective communication tool between scientists and policymakers.
[237] PDF — life processes. Their biogeochemical cycles are intertwined in air, land and water. Human activities such as industrial production, transport, agriculture, urbanisation, domestic detergent use and sewage treatment interfere with natural macronutrient cycles, unbalancing them, with unintended and largely undesirable environmental consequences.
[252] Role of microbes in biogeochemical cycles - MICROBIOLOGY — A biogeochemical cycle can best be described as the recycling of a chemical element (such as carbon or nitrogen) between living organisms and their nonliving environment (1). Microbes play key roles in these cycles, as they are typically the ones to convert inorganic matter into an organic form, allowing such matter to be used by living organisms.
[253] Bacteria's Role in Major Biogeochemical Cycles — Bacteria’s Role in Major Biogeochemical Cycles - BiologyInsights Explore how bacteria drive essential biogeochemical cycles, influencing Earth's ecosystems and maintaining environmental balance. Bacteria are microscopic organisms that play a vital role in Earth’s biogeochemical cycles, essential for sustaining life. They significantly contribute to the cycling of key elements like nitrogen, carbon, sulfur, and phosphorus, which are necessary for various biological processes. Bacteria are essential in this cycle, converting atmospheric nitrogen into forms that plants and animals can use. Photosynthetic bacteria, such as cyanobacteria, contribute to carbon fixation by capturing atmospheric carbon dioxide and converting it into organic molecules through photosynthesis, much like plants. The phosphorus cycle governs the flow of phosphorus through the Earth’s ecosystems, and bacteria mediate this movement.
[254] What are the roles of plants in biogeochemical cycles? — What are the roles of plants in biogeochemical cycles? Plants recycle matter in biogeochemical cycles. For example, through transpiration, plants move enormous amounts of water from the soil to the atmosphere. Plants such as peas host bacteria that fix nitrogen. This makes nitrogen available to all plants, which pass it on to consumers.
[255] The Role of Plants in the Effects of Global Change on Nutrient ... — Plants are thus the main factor underlying the links between global change and the status of N and P in ecosystems. This role of plants is critical to Earth's N and P biogeochemical cycles and to the changes occurring in these cycles. We urgently need to review our knowledge of the role that plant responses to global change plays in changing
[256] The Future Developments in Biogeochemistry | SpringerLink — A major development in biogeochemistry concerns the increased promotion of biogeochemical predictive modeling, a necessity considering the increased attention to current trends and future environmental possibilities in many current studies, which may link strongly with other related disciplines (Campbell, 2018).This is largely fueled by rapid environmental change, mostly from anthropogenic
[257] Historical and Future Trends in Ocean Climate and Biogeochemistry — Changing atmospheric composition due to human activities, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from fossil fuel burning, is already impacting ocean circulation, biogeochemistry, and ecology, and model projections indicate that observed trends will continue or even accelerate over this century.
[258] Biogeochemistry: Some Opportunities and Challenges for the Future ... — There are major opportunities for big, important questions to drive biogeochemical research in the future. Some suggestions are presented, such as: what are the controls on N loss and retention in watershed-ecosystems; what are the rates and controls on biological N fixation and denitrification in diverseecosystems; how does scale (temporal and spatial) control biogeochemical flux and cycling
[259] Ideas and perspectives: Biogeochemistry - some key foci for the future — Technical notes the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License. the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License. Here, we refocus on how further developing and strengthening ties between biology, geology, chemistry, and social sciences will advance biogeochemistry through (1) better incorporation of mechanisms, including contemporary evolutionary adaptation, to predict changing biogeochemical cycles, and (2) implementing new and developing insights from social sciences to better understand how sustainable and equitable responses by society are achieved. Better development of interdisciplinary ties between biology, geology, and chemistry advances biogeochemistry through (1) better integration of contemporary (or rapid) evolutionary adaptation to predict changing biogeochemical cycles and (2) universal integration of data from long-term monitoring sites in terrestrial, aquatic, and human systems that span broad geographical regions for use in modeling. All site content, except where otherwise noted, is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
[260] Ideas and perspectives: Biogeochemistry - Its Future Role in ... — Keys to its success will be the degree to which biogeochemistry succeeds in making biogeochemical knowledge more available to policy makers and educators, in predicting future changes in the biosphere in response to climate change and other anthropogenic impacts on time scales from seasons to centuries, and in facilitating sustainable and equitable responses by society. Abstract
[261] Methods — Ecosystem Biogeochemistry Lab — Application of Remote Sensing Products to Identify Landscape Level Changes. Linking satelite-based remote sensing of landscape change is critical to understanding how water chemistry changes across the world. We emphasize the importance of bridging geospatial sciences with biogeochemistry to fully understand the impacts of anthropogenic and
[262] Penetrating remote sensing: Next-generation remote sensing for ... — Another typical utilization of penetrating remote sensing is oceanographic profiling exploration. By utilizing sensors for oceanographic profiling, 5 the existing capabilities of marine remote sensing can be extended from two dimensions to three dimensions, with applications encompassing biogeochemistry, ecology, ocean dynamics, and target
[263] Adapting Machine Learning for Earth Systems — The group "Adapting Machine Learning for the Earth System" at the Department of Biogeochemical Integration of the Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry adapts machine learning methods to better understand the Earth system. It particularly focuses on the relationships between weather, climate, and terrestrial vegetation.
[264] Model-Data Integration - Max Planck Society — By using machine learning (ML) and AI, ELLIS researchers gain a deeper understanding of the interdependencies of Earth and climate. They are able to simulate scenarios for mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change. Partner: Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry, German Aerospace Center
[265] Deep learning and process understanding for data-driven Earth system ... — The integration of physics and machine learning models may not only achieve improved performance and generalizations but, perhaps more importantly, incorporates the consistency and credibility of
[282] 8 strategies to communicate science effectively to policymakers — However, the vast majority of scientists are not trained in communicating science to policymakers. The solution: Train scientists to be effective communicators and provide a platform for them to engage with policymakers. By working with scientists, policymakers can better understand these complicated problems, identify viable solutions and obtain scientific data to evaluate various policy options. Listed below are some strategies and methods that scientists might take into consideration in light of these possibilities and obstacles in order to engage and communicate their science effectively to policymakers. Partner with science communicators: Science communicators can assist in translating scientific knowledge into understandable language for the general public and policymakers. Apolitical is a private community for public servants and policymakers. Share stories, ideas and insights with the Apolitical community Share stories, ideas and insights with the Apolitical community
[283] Grad Student Hannah Safford Shares Six Strategies for Communicating ... — Above all, get someone else to read your work. Communicating your science to friends (especially non-experts) is the best way to get better at communicating your science to policymakers. 5. Pick your moment. Strategically selecting when to engage increases the chance that your idea will fall on receptive ears.
[284] A Checklist for Communicating Science and Health Research to the Public — Use clear language to describe the science. Use nontechnical words when possible, and define jargon when needed. Use as few words as possible to describe health messages or scientific concepts. Use conditional language when appropriate (language that hedges or highlights the potential gaps or unknowns). Researchers often use such language to