Management of soil organic matter in sugarcane cultivation in Brazil

Brazil is one of the world's leading producers of sugarcane, with its cultivation playing a central role in the supply of bioethanol for domestic use and export markets. As demand for renewable fuel continues to grow, there is an increasing need to enhance sugarcane productivity while ensuring environmental sustainability. Soil organic matter (SOM) is a critical determinant of soil health and productivity, and its dynamics are strongly influenced by agricultural management practices. Depending on the management approach adopted, sugarcane cultivation systems can either act as a net source or sink of carbon to the atmosphere. This review examines the key agricultural management practices that influence SOM dynamics and carbon sequestration in Brazilian sugarcane production systems. Evidence from the literature indicates that three management strategies are particularly effective in preserving SOM: (i) the adoption of “green cane” harvesting—which retains crop residues on the soil surface rather than burning them; (ii) the implementation of minimum tillage or no-till practices during crop replanting operations; and (iii) the maintenance of permanent soil cover throughout the cropping cycle. Together, these practices contribute to reducing soil carbon losses, improving soil structure, and supporting the long-term sustainability of sugarcane cultivation in Brazil.