Jerden et al. (2026): Soil Remineralization in Agroecological Systems: A Critical Review
James Jerden, Thomas Vanacore and Joanna Campe, IN: EarthArXiv, https://doi.org/10.31223/X5F196
Soil degradation threatens global food security, human nutrition, biodiversity, water resources, and climate stability by depleting soil organic matter, exhausting nutrient reserves, and disrupting carbon and nitrogen cycles. Conventional input-intensive agriculture has delivered yield gains but has also contributed to widespread micronutrient deficiencies, nutrient loading of waterways, soil erosion, and greater vulnerability to climate extremes. Soil remineralization, using finely ground, often locally sourced silicate and related rock powders co-applied with organic and biological amendments, offers a nature-based strategy to rebuild soil health and resilience while reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. Historical and contemporary evidence indicate that soil remineralization can enhance crop yields, nutrient uptake, soil structure, and carbon storage, especially on highly weathered or degraded soils. However, the use of inappropriate rock types, excessive application rates, and narrow carbon-offset framings poses agroecological risks. Here the authors review soil remineralization in agroecological systems by integrating biogeochemical theory, a historical survey, and a new synthesis of 191 experimental and field observations.