Rewilding initiatives can alter rates of soil carbon sequestration but outcomes depend strongly on ecosystem type, management history, and time horizon. Replacing intensive agriculture or grazing with naturalistic vegetation succession typically increases plant biomass inputs to soil and changes soil ecological processes. These shifts influence both the accumulation and stabilization of soil organic carbon, mediated by root growth, litter quality, microbial communities, and disturbance regimes.
Mechanisms that drive change
Establishment of shrubs and trees often raises aboveground carbon rapidly, yet soil responses are more complex. Richard D. Bardgett at Lancaster University emphasizes that soil biota regulate decomposition and stabilization pathways, so increased litter does not automatically translate into long-term soil carbon gains. William J. Bond at the University of Cape Town has highlighted that in savannas and grasslands, woody encroachment can alter fire regimes and hydrology, creating variable effects on soil carbon depending on species and climate. Simon M. Poulton at Rothamsted Research notes that measurable increases in soil organic carbon typically occur slowly and are sensitive to prior land use and ongoing disturbances.
Evidence, relevance, and consequences
Empirical studies show mixed results: former croplands left to natural regeneration can gain soil carbon over decades, while peatland rewetting associated with rewilding can rapidly reduce CO2 emissions and promote long-term carbon storage. Context matters: in temperate grasslands, returning large herbivores as part of rewilding may increase soil mixing and stimulate carbon turnover, whereas in restored woodlands increased root inputs and reduced erosion often favor sequestration. Cultural and territorial factors also shape outcomes—regions with long pastoral traditions may experience social conflict when rewilding reduces grazing areas, affecting livelihoods and land stewardship patterns that in turn influence soil carbon trajectories.
For climate mitigation policy, these nuances mean rewilding should be considered as part of landscape-level strategies rather than a universal carbon solution. Monitoring that combines soil sampling with ecological assessment and local knowledge is essential to distinguish temporary carbon stock changes from durable sequestration. Uncertainty over timescales and local conditions requires adaptive planning, integrating scientific insights from soil ecologists and social engagement with communities to balance biodiversity, cultural values, and carbon objectives.