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A 'reducing environment' is one chacterized by little or no free oxygen (dissolved or as a gas). In chemistry, 'reduction' is the reverse of oxidation. That is, the oxidation state of an atom (independent or within a molecule) is ''reduced'' by the addition of electrons. A reduced gas is thus hydrogen-rich.

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Hydric soils

Reduction firing in ceramics

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Hydric soils

Main articles: Hydric soil

Reducing conditions can develop in soils that are saturated with water long enough for microbial activity to use up all available dissolved oxygen. The result is an alteration of the chemistry of the soil, to a type known as 'hydric'; (see wetlands).

Reduction firing in ceramics

A 'reducing atmosphere' (or 'reduction atmosphere') is a condition created in a kiln in order to produce specific effects on the ceramic wares being fired. A reduction atmosphere is produced in kilns such as those fired with gas or wood by reducing the draft and depriving the kiln of oxygen. This reduced level of oxygen causes incomplete combustion of the fuel and raises the level of carbon inside the kiln.
At high temperatures the carbon will bond with and remove the oxygen in the metal oxides used as colorants in the glazes. This loss of oxygen results in a change in the color of the glazes because it allows the metals in the glaze to be seen in an unoxidized form.

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