University measures carbon capture levels in soil

Field work involves calculating the carbon captured by a Sussex meadow

Scientists at the University of Sussex have begun a research project to measure the amount of carbon captured by different natural landscapes.

The Nature Sense initiative monitors habitats across southern England.

Researchers measure the number of species of earthworms within a particular area as they help capture carbon in the soil.

The project is being backed by former Brighton Pavilion Green MP and former leader of the party, Caroline Lucas, who has been appointed as the first Professor of Practice in Environmental Sustainability at the university.

A worm count helps in the assessment of biodiversity of meadow land

Project leader Dr Chris Sandom said: "So much is going on below our feet that we just don't know about. It's a massive store of carbon.

"We are interested in how much carbon is locked up in soil for lots of different habitats that have lots of different land uses," he said.

"We are digging up soil pits pulling out all the worms, identifying all the species as far as we can.

"Worms are fantastic as they are pulling carbon into the soil. "

Dr Chris Sandom says soil is a massive store of carbon

Ms Lucas has joined students as they carried out soil sampling and the measuring of trees on campus to work out how much carbon is absorbed by different tree species.

She said: "It's a privilege to have the opportunity to collaborate with leading academics in their fields.

"I look forward to engaging and working with colleagues, students, and the public to help amplify the hugely important work that the University of Sussex is doing on climate and environmental sustainability."