Gaining a better understanding of the evolution of slash-and-burn systems
Slash-and-burn systems are currently undergoing profound changes in several regions of the Amazon and the Guiana Shield. Shorter fallow periods, the intensification of agricultural practices and the transition to agroforestry are causing lasting changes to soil properties.
The TRACES-SOLS project aims to analyse these changes in order to better understand their impacts on soil quality, ecosystem services and carbon storage.
A comparison of several Amazonian regions
The research will be carried out in French Guiana, Suriname and northern Brazil. Using a comparative, multi-scale approach, the researchers will investigate the links between agricultural practices, land-use trajectories and land health.
The project brings together scientific and regional partners to generate knowledge that can be directly applied by local stakeholders.
Project lead: ISTOM – ADI-SUDS Research Unit
Tools for long-term soil monitoring
TRACES-SOLS will enable the development of harmonised methods for monitoring soil quality and carbon. The expected outcomes include:
- a comparative typology of agricultural trajectories;
- a harmonised database;
- a reproducible protocol for monitoring soils and carbon;
scientific, educational and regional resources accessible to a range of audiences.
By identifying the most sustainable approaches, the project will contribute to better land management in areas that are particularly strategic for the conservation of biodiversity and the mitigation of climate change.
Project partners:
- Fondation FARM
- Le Mans Université (UMR ESO)
- Universidade Federal do Amazonas (UFAM)