Abstract

Soil organic carbon (SOC) saturation theory posits that soils have a finite capacity to store carbon, primarily determined by the mineral-associated organic carbon (MAOC) fraction, which is influenced by soil texture and mineralogy. This article explores SOC saturation dynamics across different climate zones, including temperate, Mediterranean, and boreal regions, using a combination of field data and modeling approaches. We analyze SOC storage, its partitioning into particulate organic carbon (POC) and MAOC, and the implications for carbon sequestration under varying climatic conditions. Results indicate that temperate zones exhibit higher MAOC saturation due to greater clay content, while boreal zones show lower saturation levels due to slower decomposition rates. Modeling efforts reveal that climate-driven factors, such as temperature and moisture, significantly affect SOC stabilization. This study underscores the importance of tailoring carbon management strategies to specific pedo-climatic zones to optimize soil carbon sequestration.