Environment

When talking about Environment, the natural world that surrounds us, including air, water, land and living organisms. Also known as the ecosystem, it sets the stage for every biological process we study.

Fungi, a kingdom of organisms that decompose dead material and form symbiotic networks with plants are a key player inside this Environment. They break down complex carbon compounds, turning forest litter into simple forms that soils can store. This decomposition fuels the carbon cycle, the continuous movement of carbon among the atmosphere, oceans, living things and the ground. In turn, the soil carbon, carbon locked in the earth’s top layers, acts like a sponge that slows the release of greenhouse gases. When soil carbon stays put, it helps keep the climate change problem in check. Put simply, fungi drive the carbon cycle, the environment relies on soil carbon, and both shape climate outcomes.

What you’ll find in this collection

The posts below unpack each link in this chain. You’ll see how fungi’s hidden networks lock carbon underground, why healthy soil matters for a stable climate, and what the latest research says about managing ecosystems for less carbon loss. Whether you’re curious about basic biology or looking for practical ways to support the environment, the articles give concrete facts you can use right away. Dive in to see how every piece fits together and why the environment depends on these tiny but mighty organisms.