How does climate change exacerbate soil erosion?

Climate change exacerbates soil erosion primarily by reducing land productivity and increasing carbon release. As global temperatures rise and precipitation patterns shift, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall and droughts, become more common. These conditions can lead to the destabilization of soil, making it more susceptible to erosion.

When land productivity diminishes, the natural vegetation that typically holds soil in place can decline. This lack of vegetation means there are fewer roots to anchor the soil, leading to higher erosion rates. Additionally, as soil is eroded, it can release stored carbon into the atmosphere, further contributing to climate change. This creates a vicious cycle where soil degradation not only harms agricultural output but also exacerbates the environmental issues related to increasing greenhouse gas concentrations.

In contrast, the other choices do not effectively capture the detrimental impact climate change has on soil erosion.