Economics, Energy, Climate Change, and Soil Security

Abstract

The Global Soil Security Symposium for which this chapter was developed was part of an effort to both improve and recognize the role of soils as they contribute to society with some speakers stating a goal of improving overall soil condition and health and the recognition of the capital value of soil. Such an effort naturally will face challenges. This chapter addresses from an economic point of view challenges that are likely to arrive from societal efforts to increase biofuels and from the ongoing and projected effects of climate change. In addition, the chapter covers some economic material regarding soil valuation in relation to management practices.