Soil-factorial models and earth-system science: A review

Earth System Science (ESS) refers to the integrated study of physical, biological, chemical, and social processes that define the conditions on Earth. The Earth is viewed as a series of overlapping spheres, including the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, the geosphere, the biosphere, and the pedosphere. According to ESS none of these spheres occur in isolation; rather, each interacts to produce the Earth's dynamic systems in a “grand symphony of the spheres.” ESS has been recognized as an emerging and strengthening paradigm primarily within the disciplines of geology, geography, and hydrology. Although soils are recognized as a key component of ESS, this linkage has not been widely and directly recognized in the soils community. Herein, we summarize the role that soil science, and especially pedology, plays in the Earth's dynamic systems. The benefits of the earth-system science approach to studying pedology are described, including (i) a better understanding of complex systems, (ii) a greater ability to model global and the pedosphere systems, (iii) improved prescriptions for sustainable environmental management, and (iv) holistic programs of instruction in soil science.

Research Highlights
► Earth System Science is a strengthening paradigm in pedology.
► Soils play a key role in Earth’s systems.
► Soil-factorial models offer a holistic view of Earth’s systems.