Research published by Teagasc shows the levels of soil carbon present in grassland soils is greater than previously quantified at national scale.

The study surveyed and sampled 10 grassland farms of an average size of 52.2ha across different soil types. The average level of soil carbon present was 346t/ha. This is almost four times more than previously quantified on some soils.

The research also noted that if the carbon saturation potential was realised, the carbon stored in these soils could increase by an average of 792.1t/ha, meaning the carbon store in these soils could range from 346t/ha to 1,138.1t/ha. The paper outlined that high carbon soils should be identified and incentives provided to retain and manage soil carbon.