Soil C-CO2 Emissions Across Different Land Uses in a Peri-Urban Area of Central Croatia

Soils play an important role in the global carbon cycle by storing organic carbon and releasing carbon dioxide (CO2) through biological processes. Land use management practices influence soil CO2 emissions by changing physical, chemical, and biological soil properties. Seasonal soil C-CO2 emissions (soil CO2 efflux expressed as C-CO2 in kg ha−1 day−1) were analyzed under cropland, orchard, grassland, forest, and abandoned land, in a peri-urban area in central Croatia in 2021 and 2023. Emissions were measured using the static method in a closed chamber, accompanied by measurements of soil temperature, moisture, and total porosity. In both years, grassland and orchards had the highest average soil C-CO2 emissions, whereas cropland showed consistently lower values. However, total soil C-CO2 emissions were significantly lower in 2023, probably influenced by higher precipitation and changes in soil moisture. The seasonal trends differed from year to year, with the highest emissions recorded in fall 2021 and spring 2023. In both years, there was a positive correlation between average soil C-CO2 emissions and soil temperature/moisture, while soil porosity also contributed to the observed emission variations. The results show the significant influence of land use types on soil C-CO2 emissions and emphasize the importance of seasonal and environmental factors in assessing soil carbon cycling. This research enhances understanding of soil contributions to climate change and supports the development of sustainable land management practices aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.