Dear researchers, 
I, JAM Demattê, coordinator of the CaBral project, describe here our newest initiative on carbon prediction in Brazil. This applied research consists of an action for monitoring soil carbon dynamics that is at the forefront of remote sensing analyses of carbon in agricultural and natural soils throughout Brazil. 
Through the institutions of origin, several Brazilian researchers collaborate with the project by providing soil samples for analysis via spectroradiometry. 
The work developed in the CaBral Project regarding the prediction of carbon in the soil is a way to identify the anthropic impacts at the national, regional and local levels. 
We seek to contribute effectively to the development of agriculture based on sustainable production, the market for carbon credits and, consequently, collaborate to mitigate climate change.
In this way, we understand that carbon in agricultural soils is declining compared to natural areas. This decrease is potentiated by anthropic factors such as mismanagement that conventional agriculture provides by generalizing pedodiversity. Thus, carbon measurements in natural vegetation and agricultural areas can portray the status of this element in the soil for decision-making regarding the conservation or sustainable exploitation of this non-renewable natural resource.
Therefore, knowledge about the carbon variation of Brazilian soils is paramount. Studies contributing to the world market for carbon credits enhance the productive capacity because the increase in the producer's income enables the investment in technology for more efficient and sustainable food production, preserving the environment and mitigating global warming. 
Conceptually, soil carbon is essential for the health of terrestrial ecosystems and for regulating the global climate. This element occurs in two main ways: a) Organic carbon, present in decomposing organic matter with functions of nourishing plants and other edaphic organisms, improving soil structure, increasing water retention capacity and favoring plant growth, and b) Inorganic carbon, composed of mineral forms of carbon, resulting from physical and chemical processes in the soil. This form of carbon has greater stability and can remain in the soil for long periods, unlike organic carbon, which is more susceptible to decomposition and carbon dioxide (CO2) release into the atmosphere.
Soil carbon sequestration plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change, as it acts as a carbon "sink" by removing CO2 from the atmosphere and storing it in the soil. Sustainable agricultural practices, such as agroforestry systems, no-tillage and crop rotation, can increase the accumulation of organic carbon in the soil, which contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
In addition to the climate benefits, increasing organic carbon in the soil improves its water-holding capacity, reducing erosion and making ecosystems more resilient to droughts and floods. Therefore, soil conservation and restoration are critical to meeting the challenges of climate change and ensuring environmental sustainability and global food security.
If you want to participate in this initiative, contact us at the address jamdemat@usp.br, which we explain our proposal better.