 Pleistocenate permafrost contains a large amount of organic material that can be rapidly released into the atmosphere if it falls due to global warming. However, this process can be slowed down by protective mechanisms such as the formation of mineral-associated organic matter and the presence of reactive iron minerals. These mechanisms are affected by changes in temperature and precipitation levels over time, which can affect how much carbon is released from the permafrost. This article was authored by Jan Nick Martins, Carsten W. Mueller, Proci Joshi, and others.