Laterite exposure under tropical rain forest. What is soil? Where does soil come from? What is special about the soils South America? How do our activities affect soil? What are the links between soil and climate change?   The first ever SOIL ATLAS OF LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN uses striking maps, informative texts and stunning photographs to answer and explain these and other questions. Leading soil scientists from Europe, South America, Russia, the United States of America and the Caribbean have collaborated under the EUROCLIMA project to produce this unique document. Using state of the art computer mapping techniques, the SOIL ATLAS OF LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN shows the changing nature of soil throughout the South American continent. The SOIL ATLAS OF LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN explains the origin and role of soil, describes the different soil types that can be found in this environment and their relevance to global issues. The atlas also discusses the principal threats to soil and the steps being taken to protect soil resources. The SOIL ATLAS OF LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN is more than just a normal atlas. Rather, this volume presents an interpretation of an often neglected natural resource that surrounds and affects us all. The SOIL ATLAS OF LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN is an essential reference to a non-renewable resource that is fundamental for life on this planet. Plants are dependent on soil for the supply of water, nutrients and as a medium for growing. Soil stores, filters, buffers and transforms substances that are introduced into the environment. This capability is crucial in producing and protecting water supplies and for regulating greenhouse gases. Soil is a provider of raw materials. Soil is also an incredible habitat and gene pool. Soil is a fundamental component of our landscape and cultural heritage. Laterite exposure under tropical rain forest. The properties of soil vary tremendously from region to region. Soil in Latin America stores huge amounts of carbon and organic matter that vital to ensure the vitality of life on Earth. The Moray archaeological site in Peru contains some unusual Inca ruins consisting of several enormous terraced circular depressions whose depth and orientation with respect to wind and sun creates a temperature difference of as much as 15 °C between the top and bottom. This large temperature difference was possibly used by the Inca to study the effects of different climatic conditions on crops. As with many other Inca sites, it also has a sophisticated irrigation system. Even in ancient times, the need to use soils in a sustainable manner was understood. The mangrove biome exists in fine-textured, organic-rich, saline soils along tropical coastlines. Brazil alone contains 15% of the world’s mangroves. European Commission EUR 23499 EN Price (excluding VAT) in Luxembourg: €25