Since the University of Arizona took over management of Biosphere 2 in 2007, there has been ongoing research focused on various aspects of climate change and sustainable living. The current research at Biosphere 2 is multi-disciplinary and covers topics such as atmospheric science, soil science, hydrology, ecology, and agriculture.
One of the key research areas at Biosphere 2 is the study of carbon cycling and its impact on climate change. Researchers are exploring ways to reduce carbon emissions and sequester carbon in the soil and biomass of ecosystems. They are also investigating how changes in climate and land use affect carbon cycling and storage in ecosystems.
Another area of research at Biosphere 2 is the study of water availability and management in arid regions. Researchers are exploring ways to improve water-use efficiency in agriculture and urban areas, as well as studying the impact of climate change on water availability and quality.
Biosphere 2 is also home to the Landscape Evolution Observatory (LEO), which is a cutting-edge facility for studying soil erosion, hydrology, and plant-soil interactions. The LEO is a series of three large-scale experimental landscapes that allow researchers to study how soil and landscapes respond to climate change, land use, and vegetation changes.
Additionally, Biosphere 2 is home to a variety of ecological and agricultural experiments, such as the study of how different crops and cropping systems can be used to increase soil health and fertility.
Overall, the modern research at Biosphere 2 is focused on understanding and addressing the complex challenges of climate change and sustainability. The ongoing research is aimed at developing solutions that can be applied in real-world contexts and help us build a more sustainable and resilient future.
