Coal mining in Semi-Arid Regions: Contrasting Effects on SOC Accumulation (Loess) vs. Loss (Desert)

This data reveal that mining substantially reshapes SOC storage and its regulation mechanisms: (i) loess soils exhibit deep SOC enrichment, whereas transition and sandy soils undergo significant depletion; (ii) coal mining was not the dominant driver of SOC vertical distribution in the transitional zone, but had non-negligible impacts on SOC of 0-100 cm disturbance, it overrides vegetation effects; and (iii) controlling factors shift with depth-from soil structural attributes at the surface to soil properties and topographic drivers in the subsoil.