The Secrets of Ancient Amazonian Dark Earth Revealed

A study led by researchers at MIT, the University of Florida, and in Brazil has found evidence that ancient Amazonians intentionally created fertile "dark earth" to improve soil fertility and sustain large societies. The dark earth, rich in carbon, was created through intentional practices such as composting and spreading organic waste. The study suggests that modern sustainable agriculture and climate change mitigation efforts can draw inspiration from these ancient practices to sequester carbon in soil.