The Arid Regions of Russia and their CarbonSoil Dynamics

The steppe biome of arid regions has a unique ability to form in watershed conditions soils that are exceptionally rich in organic matter, which characterize high potential and play a significant role in the global carbon depot. The absorption of carbon dioxide emission from burning of organic fuels, deforestation and soil erosion is calculated on the basis of the three-dimensional mathematical model of global carbon dioxide cycle in arid regions of Russia. The regional consequences revealed the largest loss of productive capacity in the Astrakhan region, as well as anthropogenic damage and natural decomposition of humus of the soils of this region by year 2060.