Unravelling the effects of climate change on the soil-plant-atmosphere interactions: A critical review

Abstract

The soil-plant-atmosphere nexus is vital in terrestrial ecosystems, featuring complex feedback loops that link soil, plant, and atmospheric processes. This review analyzes the significant impacts of climate change on the soil-plant-atmosphere nexus, focusing on soil degradation, plant physiological responses, and atmospheric alterations. This comprehensive review aims to integrate current research, evaluate interdependent feedback mechanisms, and highlight the gaps in understanding the system's resilience under climatic stressors. A systematic literature analysis was done by focusing on 1) soil-plant-atmosphere nexus, 2) climate change impacts on soil dynamics, 3) climate stressors and plant responses, and 4) soil-plant-atmosphere feedback mechanisms, with specific criteria for data on extreme weather events, changed nutrient cycles, and CO₂-related alterations and temperature-related changes. Key findings reveal that climate-induced disruptions such as altered precipitation, increased temperatures, and extreme weather events weaken soil structure, damage nutrient cycling, and modify plant growth, thereby threatening agricultural productivity and ecosystem stability. Elevated CO₂ enhances photosynthesis but is counterbalanced by nutrient limitations and phenological mismatches affecting biodiversity. Feedback loops, such as those driven by decreased carbon sequestration and increased greenhouse gas emissions, amplify these effects. The review emphasizes the urgency of integrated mitigation and adaptation strategies, including the adoption of climate-resilient agricultural practices, urban green infrastructure, and renewable energy technologies.