The Initiative “4 per 1000” - a new global challenge for the soils of Russia

The implementation of the “4 per mille” or “4 per 1000” Initiative in Russia can be one of the instruments mitigating concentration of the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. It is estimated that the total annual absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2), including natural dynamics and application of carbon saving technologies in agriculture, can be as much as 23–28 % of annual emission of the gas into the atmosphere. The “4 per 1000” Initiative mechanism will operate successfully for 12–15 years, which corresponds to the time of saturation of arable soil with carbon. The implementation of the “4 per mille” Initiative is not only Russia's positioning among the countries that support sustainable, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly development, but also demonstrates the ability of the country to realize its competitive advantages in demand in the low-carbon world.