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Abstract The Awash River Basin is essential in combating climate change by absorbing atmospheric carbon. The goal of this study was to determine carbon stocks using the linear correlation between field inventory and remote sensing data in the basin. The regression model was created using each plot studied from field inventory and the corresponding vegetation indices (VI) values obtained from ArcGIS software in the basin’s study area. The linear correlation values for estimated carbon stock with Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) were R2 = 0.36, R = 0.60, and R2 = 0.52, R = 0.72, respectively. In contrast, the values for the Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) were R2 = 0.36 and R = 0.60. The results show that the relationship between carbon stock and EVI is stronger for estimating carbon stock than other indices (NDVI and SAVI). The linear regression model or equation developed for NDVI, EVI, SAVI, and field-level carbon stock was Y = 16.25x–1.093, Y = 8.935x–1.1254, and Y = 12.988x–1.0895, respectively. The estimated carbon stock from the EVI linear regression model was 15,904,158.24 tons, with an average carbon stock value of 111.96 tons per hectare. The findings concluded that EVI has a stronger correlation with carbon stock stand estimation than NDVI and SAVI. This study could serve as a baseline for the estimation of carbon stock using vegetation indices in different and large-scale land use land cover types. High-resolution multispectral imagery and cloud-based geospatial analysis platforms could provide more accurate results.

The Philippines has very few studies in terms of biomass production and carbon stocks in reforestation sites and the level of emission that has been avoided due to forest protection activities. Most of carbon stock estimates being used in the country are based on secondary data or studies in other countries using the same species. The study aimed to provide a reliable assessment on the contribution of reforestation sites in biomass production and carbon stocks and the potential of these plantation to contribute to the climate change mitigation efforts in the Philippines. The guideline prepared by the Philippines’ Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Forest Management Bureau (DENR-FMB) in 2021 on Forest Resources Assessment (FRA) which follows the manual of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Forestry Department in conducting FRA was used during data collection. A tract was established in the southern portion of the reforestation site wherein the species planted in 2012 are already very prominent and their diameter at breast height (DBH) and total height were measured and their corresponding wood specific gravity were taken into account. Carbon stocks were estimated using Chave et al.’s and Brown’s allometric equations. The estimated carbon stocks using Chave et al.’s formula is 542.3 tC/ha while the estimated carbon stock using Brown’s formula is 2001.6 tC/ha. The results of computation using Brown’s equation are considerably higher than the results using Chave et al.’s equation considering that Brown’s equation only took into consideration the DBH of trees while Chave et al.’s equation included the height and wood specific gravity of each species. The study demonstrated how important our forests in terms of their roles as carbon sinks and therefore contribute to our country’s efforts in climate change mitigation.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Efforts to enhance carbon stocks and boost carbon absorption potential are essential for climate change mitigation. Peatland ecosystems, known for their high organic content, are particularly vulnerable to environmental management. The study aimed to examine the alterations in land use and land cover that occurred between 1998 and 2022, spanning a 24-year duration. Additionally, it sought to assess the associated variations in carbon stocks within the designated Kepau Jaya specific purpose forest area. The area under investigation encompasses a peatland ecosystem that has experienced substantial changes in land cover and land use. This study investigated the fluctuations in carbon stock caused by these alterations and provides valuable perspectives on the potential of agroforestry systems to promote a wider range of land uses. Additionally, it highlights their role in ecosystem restoration initiatives and the better management of forest peatland regions.METHODS: A spatial analysis was conducted on Landsat 5 and 8 satellite images by using shapefile data stored within the Google Earth Engine platform. Data analysis was carried out using Classification and Regression Tree, a decision tree algorithm used in machine learning for guided classification. Furthermore, purposive sampling was utilized to gather socioeconomic data, followed by the implementation of a benefit-cost analysis.FINDINGS: The results revealed significant changes in the land cover within the Kepau Jaya specific purpose forest area over a 24-year period, with forested areas and open areas decreasing by 23.15 hectares per year and 16.94 hectares per year respectively, and oil palm plantation areas expanding by 40.10 hectares per year. From 1998 to 2022, there has been a consistent annual decline in carbon stocks, resulting in a reduction of 1,933.11 tons of carbon per year. The changes in land use and cover are closely linked to this decline. In an effort to increase plant species diversity in the area and support the gradual transition away from monoculture, a participatory agroforestry scheme was implemented by intercropping Coffea liberica and Shorea balangeran between oil palm rows in a 2-hectare oil palm plantation block within the agroforestry demonstration plot. According to measurements taken at breast height, the aboveground biomass of these species was measured, leading to projected estimates of carbon stocks in Kepau Jaya specific purpose forest area reaching 19,455 tonnes of carbon by the year 2030, with Coffea liberica contributing 4,148 tonnes carbon and Shorea balangeran contributing 15,307 tonnes carbon. CONCLUSION: The study area experienced a substantial reduction in forest cover, whereas the extent of oil palm areas expanded significantly. The findings underscore the need for proactive measures to strengthen the governance of specific-purpose forest areas through community empowerment and the establishment of demonstration plots to promote agroforestry development. The results of this study provide insights for long-term forest rehabilitation strategies aimed at fostering sustainable forest management that yields environmental and socio-economic benefits in the long run.

Abstract Background Implementing large-scale carbon sink afforestation may contribute to carbon neutrality targets and increase the economic benefits of forests in rural areas. However, how to manage planted forests in China to maximize the joint benefits of timber production and carbon sequestration is still unclear. Therefore, the present study quantified the effects of different rotation lengths, thinning treatments, site quality (SCI), stand density (SDI), and management costs on the joint benefits of carbon sequestration and timber production based on a stand-level model system developed for larch plantations in northeast China. Results The performances of the different scenarios on carbon stocks were satisfactory, where the variations in the outcomes of final carbon stocks could be explained by up to 90%. The joint benefits increased significantly with the increases of SDIs and SCIs, regardless of which rotation length and thinning treatments were evaluated. Early thinning treatments decreased the joint benefits significantly by approximately 131.53% and 32.16% of middle- and higher-SDIs, however longer rotations (60 years) could enlarge it by approximately 71.39% and 80.27% in scenarios with and without thinning when compared with a shorter rotation length (40 years). Discount rates and timber prices were the two most important variables affecting joint benefits, while the effects of carbon prices were not as significant as expected in the current trading market in China. Conclusions The management plans that promote longer rotations, higher stand densities, and no thinning treatments can maximize the joint benefits of carbon sequestration afforestation and timber production from larch plantations located in northeast China. Graphical Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Mangroves play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing carbon stocks. However, there is a lack of information on mangrove distribution and their carbon absorption abilities. Therefore, this study aimed to bridge this gap by gathering data on the ability of mangrove forest areas to absorb carbon stocks. Specifically, this study aims to assess the carbon absorption potential of the Lantebung mangrove ecosystem through field surveys, allometric calculations, and unmanned aerial vehicle imagery.METHODS: The methodology employed in this study consisted of field surveys, allometric calculations, and multispectral aerial imagery processing along the coastal of Makassar City, South Sulawesi, within the Lantebung mangrove ecosystem. Field surveys were conducted to determine the species composition of each mangrove stand and measure their diameter at breast height. The allometric formula was then used to calculate mangrove biomass, which was subsequently converted into carbon stock values. Aerial imagery was processed using the normalized difference vegetation index, followed by a regression analysis between normalized difference vegetation index and carbon stock values to obtain a carbon stock estimation model.FINDINGS: The results of the analysis of red-green-blue aerial imagery from the multispectral unmanned aerial vehicle has provided valuable insights into the extent of mangrove vegetation cover in the Lantebung mangrove forest area, revealing it to be 14.18 hectares. The normalized difference vegetation index results indicated that mangrove objects fall within a value range of 0.21–1, categorized into three density classes: high-, medium-, and low-density mangroves. The field surveys confirmed the presence of three types of mangroves in Lantebung Makassar, namely Rhizophora apiculata, Rhizophora mucronata, and Avicennia sp. The regression analysis conducted to assess the relationship between the normalized difference vegetation index value and carbon stocks yielded the equation model carbon stock = 474.61, vegetation Index value + 17.238, with a linear regression value of 0.7945. The carbon stock values for low-density class mangrove areas were predicted to range between 17.24 and 288.64 tons carbon per hectare, medium-density mangroves' carbon stocks to be between 126.04 and 391.14 tons carbon per hectare, and high-density mangrove areas' carbon stocks to range from 258.04 to 491.85 tons carbon per hectare.CONCLUSION: The utilization of drones as a technique for monitoring carbon stocks has offered significant benefits. Drones equipped with multispectral sensors enable the collection of precise and comprehensive data on vegetation and elevation in many ecological systems. The survey and subsequent analysis highlighted the wide variation in the density of mangrove forests in the Lantebung mangrove ecosystem. This study demonstrated a strong correlation between the normalized difference vegetation index extracted using unmanned aerial vehicle and mangrove carbon levels obtained from actual field measurements.

Economic, social, and ecological aspects of the environment are all impacted differently by mining in different parts of the world. When mining activities end and leave the area bare, rehabilitation and revegetation are required to minimize the impacts of mining in general. By fixing carbon in tree biomass, these interventions have a positive effect on increasing carbon storage. Measuring carbon stock is essential to evaluating the effectiveness of these interventions. This study was conducted in an inactive mining area in Marinduque, Philippines. Plots for sampling were created in areas that were not yet undergoing rehabilitation as well as those that were. The above-ground carbon stock and biomass were estimated using the allometric equation provided by IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) and Sourcebook for Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry Projects as references, respectively. The results for areas undergoing rehabilitation and those that were not indicated 4.297 t/ha and 0.0509 t/ha, respectively. The former has an above-ground carbon stock of 2.1485 t/ha, and the latter has 0.2545 t/ha. This shows a successful increase in biomass and carbon stock in the area undergoing rehabilitation. This comparison suggests that rehabilitation and revegetation should be implemented in mining areas to help mitigate the impacts of mining while also sequestering carbon. Policies and activities that will protect the current rehabilitation efforts and expand this rehabilitation to other inactive mining areas should be incorporated for future research.

One of the main issues influencing the quality of the soil and agricultural productivity is land degradation. In degraded lands, crop cultivation is not sustainable without adopting resource conservation practices. Agroforestry systems that incorporate canopy management practices have the potential to significantly contribute to the restoration of degraded land by preserving natural resources. We hypothesized that restoring degraded land through a combination of tree planting, shade-loving crop cultivation, canopy management, and land management practice could result in significant improvements in soil fertility, productivity, and carbon sequestration. To test this hypothesis, an experiment was conducted involving a combination of Mulberry (Morus alba L.) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa) in conjunction with canopy management practices including coppicing pollarding and lopping. This experiment, designed as a randomized block design (RBD) with eight treatments, evaluated the impacts on soil erosion, soil health, and carbon sequestration over four years. The results revealed that mulberry under coppicing combined with turmeric treatment reduced the runoff by 45.3% and 28.7% compared to cultivated fallow and sole turmeric, respectively. Sole mulberry under coppicing treatment showed even greater efficacy, reducing soil loss by 73.3% and 57.8% over cultivated fallow and sole turmeric, respectively. Additionally, the mulberry under coppicing combined with turmeric treatment decreased the losses of N, P, and K by 31.8%, 63%, and 22.5%, respectively, compared to sole turmeric. Moreover, the mulberry under pollarding combined with turmeric enhanced SOC stock and SOC sequestration rates by 23.3% and 107.4%, respectively, over fallow and sole turmeric. This treatment also increased soil moisture and turmeric yield by 25% and 17.6%, respectively, over sole turmeric. Furthermore, sole mulberry under lopping treatment produced the highest above-ground biomass (AGB), carbon stock (CS), and carbon sequestration (CSe), followed by lopping combined with turmeric and pollarding combined with turmeric. Hence, the adoption of a mulberry-based agroforestry system with canopy management practices system could be a sustainable technique for restoring the degraded land. Therefore, this system could be recommended for improving soil fertility, reducing soil degradation, and improving productivity, particularly in the Western Himalayan region of India or similar agro-climatic regions worldwide.

The forests are major resources for carbon sequestration and help to mitigate the adverse effect of atmospheric carbon and reduce global warming. The present study was conducted to estimate the carbon sequestration potential of the Quercus floribunda forests at two different aspects and three altitudes. Ten quadrates of 10 × 10 m size were laid out in each forest for the estimation of stand density, tree biomass, and soil samples were collected from each quadrate. Q. floribunda was the dominating tree at studied altitudes and aspects with the IVI values of 161.14 and 124.96 in the southern aspect and northern aspects, respectively. the highest values of above-ground biomass density (AGBD), below-ground biomass density (BGBD), total biomass density (TBD), and total carbon density (TCD) was recorded at the upper elevation (2500–2700 m) of southern and northern aspects. In the southern aspect values of AGBD (476.67 < 575.67 Mg/ha), BGBD (124.8 < 148.9 Mg/ha), TBD (601.53 < 724 Mg/ha), TCD (300.83 < 362.03 Mg/ha) were higher than northern aspect. The values of AGBD, BGBD, TBD, and TCD were reported maximum (638 Mg/ha, 163.1 Mg/ha, 800.5 Mg/ha, and 400.35 Mg/ha; respectively) in the upper elevation. Soil organic carbon (SOC), soil organic matter (SOM), and soil organic carbon stock (SOCS) decreased with increasing altitudes and depths which were found higher in the southern aspect. Bulk density (BD) and P increased with altitudes and depth however bulk density was equal (1.29 g cc-1) in both aspects whereas P was also found higher (31.43 kg/ha) in the southern aspect. Highest available nitrogen (398 kg/ha) was recorded in the northern aspect at middle altitude. The available potassium was highest in the northern aspect. At lower altitudes, available potassium ranges between 246–615 kg/ha. Soil pH was found slightly acidic in all the sites ranging from 4.91 to 5.74 in different soil depths. Dehydrogenase activity was ranged between 1.35 and 8.74 µg/g/h from lower to upper soil depth and decreased with an increase in soil depths and increased with altitudes, whereas found highest in the southern aspect. The present study suggested that tree density, tree biomass, carbon sequestration potential, and soil health in Q. floribunda forests were substantially influenced by the altitude as well as the aspect. These findings contribute valuable insights for climate change mitigation and forest management strategies in the study region.

Forests, particularly church forests, play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing and storing CO2, preserving biodiversity, and acting as carbon sinks. This study aimed to estimate the biomass and carbon stocks of various woody species in church forests in the West Gojjam zone. Twenty-six church forests were selected based on agroecology, elevation, size, and proximity to population centers. Vegetation data were collected using a systematic sampling technique, with 20 m x 20 m (400 m2) plots established along transect lines oriented at 120° intervals at 60°, 180°, and 300° within each church forest. Measurements of diameter at breast height (DBH) and height were taken for all matured woody plants with a DBH ≥ 2.5 cm. Data analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA to evaluate the effects of altitude, forest size, and human disturbance on aboveground biomass (AGB) and carbon stocks. Additionally, linear regression was applied to investigate the relationship between vegetation structure (species richness, density, and diversity) and biomass accumulation. The results revealed a total of 111 woody species, dominated by indigenous species particularly from the Fabaceae family. The study church forests had Shannon diversity index and richness ranging from 1.73 to 3.47 and 7 to 45, respectively. The results showed that the 26 church forests had an average aboveground biomass (AGB) of 31.97 ± 3.31 tons ha-1 and a CO2 equivalence of 97.15 ± 10.47 tons ha-1. The AGB and aboveground carbon (AGC) values varied among the church forests, of which Debre Mihret Mesk Kidanemihret had the highest AGB with 99.00 tons ha-1 and 49.50 tons ha-1 AGC, indicating their substantial capacity for carbon storage. Conversely, Korch Silassie church forest displayed the lowest AGB, suggesting ecological challenges that necessitate targeted conservation efforts. These findings underscore the critical role of church forests as carbon sinks, capable of sequestering atmospheric CO2 and contributing to the mitigation of climate change. The findings of the present study suggest the integration of church forests into national and international climate policies, such as REDD+ to leverage their potential in reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation.

Land use and land cover changes significantly impact carbon storage capacity, potentially causing long-term climate change, as examined in the Upper Awash Basin over three decades. This study aimed to examine the spatial and temporal dynamics of carbon stocks in the Upper Awash Basin over three decades due to land use and land cover changes. Remote sensing, ArcGIS, and the InVEST model were used to map changes in land use and land cover, as well as changes in carbon storage. The model and software have proven as accurate and useful tools for mapping changes in land use, cover, and carbon storage, allowing researchers to assess environmental impacts, plan conservation strategies, and effectively monitor ecosystems. Between 1993 and 2023, forests, shrublands, and wetlands decreased by 27.7%, 41.7%, and 60.7%, respectively, while cropland and built-up areas increased by 9.7% and 154.7%, respectively. As a result, the overall carbon stock decreased by 15%, from 17,342,625 tons to 14,810,521 tons of carbon. Agriculture expansion, overexploitation of forests for wood and charcoal production, settlement, population growth, and urban development are the primary drivers of carbon loss. Despite the upper Awash River Basin’s importance for carbon storage and sequestration, changes in land use and cover increased carbon emissions, contributing to climate change. Thus, this study highlights the link between land use land cover change and shifts in carbon stocks, emphasizing the importance of sustainable land management practices for maintaining or increasing carbon storage capacity, mitigating the effects of climate change, and improving overall ecosystem function.

AbstractDeadwood, a vital component of forest ecosystems, constitutes a quintessential carbon reservoir that must be disclosed under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. This reservoir, comprising fallen logs, snags, and stumps, markedly affects carbon dynamics over decades. In this study, deadwood carbon stocks were quantified using data from 2674 sites in Japan surveyed between 2011 and 2015 via the National Forest Soil Carbon Inventory, and the deadwood carbon attributes in the country were explored. Deadwood were surveyed using the line intersect method for fallen logs and the belt transect method for stumps and snags. In Japan, the deadwood carbon stock (measured in t-C/ha) was quantified at 7.5 ± 9.74 (mean ± SD), with fallen logs at 3.26 ± 4.43, stumps at 2.45 ± 5.69, and snags at 1.80 ± 5.27, with significant differences detected among these stocks (p

The Hallaydeghe Wildlife Reserve, with its semi-arid to desert climate, features diverse land cover classifications. This study examined land cover changes and total carbon stocks from 1999 to 2019, focusing on forest, woodland, grassland, and bushland vegetation types. Land cover classes were created using 1999, 2003, and 2019 Landsat images. ArcGIS 10.4.1 and ERDAS IMAGINE were used for map creation, while future land use changes were simulated using the CA-Markov model. Carbon stock assessment involved five pools: soil, dead wood, aboveground, belowground, and litter carbon. Soil samples were collected at three depths, and data on woody plant species, soils, and litter were gathered through random systematic sampling. From 1999 to 2019, woodland grew by 57.94%, while grassland and bushland decreased by 6.86% and 10.51%, respectively. Projections for 2035 indicate a 40.68% increase in bushland, decreases in forest and grassland, and the emergence of bareland. Total carbon stocks varied among vegetation types: forest (35.94±6.63 tC ha-1), grassland (22.55±3.35 tC ha-1), and bushland (23.65±3.25 tC ha-1). The soil organic carbon pool contributed the most across all land cover categories. The shift from grassland to forest may impact the Grevy’s zebra’s habitat. Effective land use management is crucial for preserving carbon stores and ecosystem health. Implementing climate-smart policies, including community-based conservation and sustainable management practices, is essential to mitigate the impacts of land cover changes on wildlife and carbon stocks in the reserve.

Land use change is an important factor to consider in carbon emissions estimates, and quantification of changes in carbon flows and stocks in the “Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry” sector is largely less reliable than emissions’ assessments from stationary sources and transport. The purpose of the research is to test the methodology for regional assessment of carbon stocks of ecosystems and their transformation under the land use/land cover change (based on the example of the Yaroslavl region). We used available European Space Agency spatial land cover data and publications on carbon density of major reservoirs of terrestrial ecosystems. Calculations were carried out in InVEST, ArcGIS, MS Excel. It was revealed that for 1992–2019 changes in land cover affected 6.8% of the region’s area. About 337.4 million tons of carbon were accumulated in the ecosystems of the Yaroslavl region, the dynamics of reserves is positive, which is explained by an increase in the areas of forests and wetlands. About 73% of the total carbon reserves are accumulated in forest ecosystems, about 20% – in arable lands, pastures and meadows, 5% – in swamps. Trends in land use change and carbon stock dynamics within land cover classes/ecosystem types should be taken into account for developing regional-level recommendations for ecosystem management to reduce emissions and increase carbon sequestration.

Climate change has been identified as a global issue that must be controlled at every possible step. Arunachal Pradesh is considered a biodiversity hotspot that needs to be conserved. Carbon stock assessment of an area, especially forests, has emerged as an important aspect of understanding the carbon storage capacities of trees of that forest, helping to mitigate climate change along with promoting sustainable conservation of biodiversity. Siwalik refers to the foothill part of the Himalayas comprising of small hillocks. It is characterised by rugged and undulating topography. Due to increasing anthropogenic activities, this region is growing fragile and needs to be conserved. This review article presents various aspects of carbon stock assessment, highlighting the benefits and the challenges that hinder the process of carbon stock estimation. Various articles based upon assessing forest biomass and carbon stock of Arunachal Pradesh were reviewed. To provide insights about associated opportunities, futuristic tendencies, and challenges in carbon stock assessment using geospatial technology, the present article was planned. Reach to understand the preferred method of estimating forest biomass and related carbon stock. Also to get to know about the obstacles that was confronted during the assessment of the carbon potential of forests. The article will review and highlight the use of field-based data inventory in combination with Remote Sensing technology for carbon stock assessment of an area along with the challenges, benefits, and futuristic scope related to them.

Forests play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change by sequestering carbon in their biomass and soil. However, Ethiopia faces the threat of soil carbon emissions due to deforestation and continuous cultivation. This study reviewed the analogies in phytobiomass and soil carbon evaluation methods in Ethiopia. Index-base and year-wise analysis methods were used for the compilation of the study. Developing nations, such as Ethiopia, duly enhance resilient measures to assess forest carbon stocks for effective climate change mitigation, particularly with reference to emissions from deforestation and degradation. Even though more than 90% of Ethiopia’s energy comes from forest biomass, deforestation significantly affects the carbon stored in aboveground biomass, which is the largest reservoir. Estimating forest biomass and carbon emissions entails uncertainties, with error ranges around ±50% for aboveground pools and ±90% for soil carbon pools. Various tier methodologies are employed by experts to estimate forest biomass and carbon stock emissions, with Tier 2 factors serving as default emissions but country-specific factors offering improved accuracy over Tier 1. Tier 3 methodologies require highly specific inventory data on carbon stocks in different pools and common measurements of key carbon stocks. Forest conservation enhances biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and essential ecosystem services, fostering soil health, regulating water cycles, and supporting diverse plant and animal species. In conclusion, directing efforts towards forest conservation not only helps maintain biodiversity and ecosystem services but also significantly contributes to mitigating climate change by enhancing carbon storage capacities and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Abstract Background Carbon (C) sink and stock are among the most important ecosystem services provided by forests in climate change mitigation policies. In this context, old-growth forests constitute an essential reference point for the development of close-to-nature silviculture, including C management techniques. Despite their small extent in Europe, temperate old-growth forests are assumed to be among the most prominent in terms of biomass and C stored. However, monitoring and reporting of C stocks is still poorly understood. To better understand the C stock amount and distribution in temperate old-growth forests, we estimated the C stock of two old-growth stands in the Dinaric Alps applying different assessment methods, including direct and indirect approaches (e.g., field measurements and allometric equations vs. IPCC standard methods). This paper presents the quantification and the distribution of C across the five main forest C pools (i.e., aboveground, belowground, deadwood, litter and soil) in the study areas and the differences between the applied methods. Results We report a very prominent C stock in both study areas (507 Mg C ha− 1), concentrated in a few large trees (36% of C in 5% of trees). Moreover, we found significant differences in C stock estimation between direct and indirect methods. Indeed, the latter tended to underestimate or overestimate depending on the pool considered. Conclusions Comparison of our results with previous studies and data collected in European forests highlights the prominence of temperate forests, among which the Dinaric Alps old-growth forests are the largest. These findings provide an important benchmark for the development of future approaches to the management of the European temperate forests. However, further and deeper research on C stock and fluxes in old-growth stands is of prime importance to understand the potential and limits of the climate mitigation role of forests.

[Objective] Sustainable Development Goal 15.3.1 (SDG 15.3.1) is one of the important indicators to characterize land degradation.Exploring the impact of land use change and ecosystem service values (ESVs) on SDG 15.3.1 is a key factor to improve land degradation. [Methods] Based on land use and carbon stock changes, a new evaluation rule was established for SDG15.3.1 index, and the completion of SDG 15.3.1 was evaluated. The equivalent factor method was used to calculate the value of ecosystem services to quantitatively analyse the impact of land use change on ESV. [Results] (1) The land use type change was frequent in the study area, which mainly showed that high forest land, water body and construction land increased, cultivated land, grassland and shrub decreased, and unused land remained basically unchanged; (2) The spatial distribution pattern of ESV was high in the middle, low arround, high in the west and low in the east; From 2000 to 2020, the total ESV loss was 7.32×108 yuan. From 2000 to 2010, the ESV loss of land degradation area was 3.03×109 yuan. From 2010 to 2020, the ESV loss in land degradation areas was 2.28×109 yuan. (3) According to the evaluation results of SDG15.3.1, the indicators of SDG15.3.1 for 2000—2010 and 2010—2020 are 5.22 percent and 4.77 percent, respectively, while the net land restoration area was -1.62×105 hm2 and -2.4×105 hm2. The SDG15.3.1 target had improved, but the zero land degradation growed target is still not achieved. [Conclusion] The research results provided a reference for the impact of land use change on ecosystem services in the process of achieving SDG 15.3.1 in plateau urban agglomerations.

Land use plays an important role in maintaining carbon stock balance, ecosystem sustainability, and the environment. Massive land use changes in forest areas, peatlands, mangroves, and greenways result in an increase in CO2 release. This research aimed to analyze the impact of land use changes on the value of the carbon stock around Yogyakarta International Airport. The data used were Pleiades images in 2014, 2018, and 2022. Image analysis was carried out visually to produce detailed and accurate land use classification. Meanwhile, multitemporal map overlays were carried out to find out land use changes. Changes in carbon stock were obtained from the land use formula multiplied by the value of the Greenhouse Gas Constant (GGC). The results showed that the construction of an airport and its supporting infrastructure triggered land use changes that had implications for the decreasing carbon stock. The decrease in the area of vegetation cover in fields, community plantations, and mixed plantations from 2014 to 2022, amounting to -640.99 ha, increased carbon emissions. The results of the analysis showed that there had been changes in carbon stock. In 2014, the value was 150,286.57 t C/ha; in 2018, it decreased to 136,631.56 t C/ha; and in 2022, it reduced to 133,554.36 t C/ha. Massive economic activity and infrastructure development trigger reduced vegetation cover, resulting in increased carbon and increased carbon being released into the atmosphere. The problem of land conversion that affects changes in carbon stock and impacts climate change requires mitigation, among which is proper land use management and sustainable spatial planning.

Estimation of plant community composition, aboveground biomass and carbon stock is crucial for understanding forest ecology, strengthening environmental management, and developing effective tools and policies for forest restoration. This study was conducted in nine different forest reserves in Sri Lanka from 2012 to 2018 to examine the impact of community-based forest restoration (CBFR) on stand structural attributes, aboveground biomass, and carbon stock compared to state-managed forests. In total, 180 plots (90 plots in community-managed restoration blocks (CMRBs) and 90 plots assigned to state-managed restoration blocks (SMRBs)) were sampled at the study site. To conduct an inventory of standing trees, circular plots with a radius of 12.6 m (equivalent to an area of 500 square meters) were established. The Shannon diversity index, Allometric equations and Difference in Differences (DID) estimation were used to assess the data. Our study provides evidence of the positive impact of the CBFR program on enriching trees diversity. Considering stand structural attributes of both blocks showed higher trees density in the smaller diameter at breast height (DBH) category, indicating growth in both CMRBs and SMRBs. The results showed that tree biomass and carbon density were disproportionally distributed across the nine different forest reserves. On average, tree biomass and carbon density were higher in SMRBs (79.97 Mg ha−1, 37.58 Mg C ha−1) compared to CMRBs (33.51 Mg ha−1, 15.74 Mg C ha−1). However, CMRBs in Madigala reserve represent the highest biomass (56.53 and 59.92 Mg ha−1) and carbon density (26.57 and 28.16 Mg C ha−1). The results of biomass and carbon estimates were higher in all SMRBs in the nine different forest reserves compared to CMRBs. The findings suggest that future forest restoration programs in Sri Lanka should enhance participatory approaches to optimize tree species diversity, density and carbon storage, particularly in community-controlled forests. Our findings could assist developing tropical nations in understanding how CBFR impacts forest restoration objectives and improves the provision of ecological services within forests.

Integrated farming system (IFS) aims to diversify the agricultural landscapes by incorporating different components to meet the multifarious needs of the burgeoning population. The present study was undertaken to understand the impact of different cropping systems on soil organic carbon (SOC) stock, aggregate distribution, and aggregate associated organic carbon (AAOC) in 2-IFS models of varying sizes (0.4 and 0.8 ha) established during 2008–2009. After 10 years of the study, the fodder system registered the greatest TOC and carbon stocks across IFS models, with surface soil (0–15 cm) accumulating 17 and 13% higher TOC and C stock, respectively, in 0.4 and 0.8 ha models. In 0–15 cm, macroaggregates (Ma) represented the highest proportion (75–76%) in both models. Among cropping systems, the fodder system recorded the highest large macroaggregates in both IFS models. Within 0–30 cm depth, small macroaggregates are mostly found in the perennial system (fodder, guava+turmeric, and lemon intercropping system), indicating the potential to improve the aggregate stability over the seasonal (shorter duration) system. In general, micro aggregate (Mi) fraction was pre-dominant in sub-surface soil (17.35%). The maximum AAOC was found in Ma compared to Mi fractions, with approximately 67 and 63% of total carbon associated with Ma in 0.4 and 0.8 ha IFS models, respectively. Interestingly, the 0.8 ha IFS model had higher TOC (~11%) and carbon stock (~12%) than the 0.4 ha model, but AAOC did not show a similar result, indicating the influence of cropping systems on AAOC. The study indicated that the fodder-based production system had better performance in terms of soil physical health and increased aggregate stability and content of soil carbon. This is indicative of the advantages of perennial-based systems over seasonal- or annual-based cropping systems for soil sustainability in Eastern Indo-Gangetic Plains.

Peatlands store a large amount of carbon. However, peatlands are complex ecosystems, and acquiring reliable estimates of how much carbon is stored underneath the Earth’s surface is inherently challenging, even at small scales. Here, we aim to establish links between the above- and below-ground factors that control soil carbon status, identify the key environmental variables associated with carbon storage, as well as to explore the potential for using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) remote sensing for spatial mapping of peatlands. We combine UAVs equipped with Red-Green-Blue (RGB), multispectral, thermal infrared, and light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensors with ground-penetrating radar (GPR) technology and traditional field surveys to provide a comprehensive, 3-dimensional mapping of a peatland hillslope-floodplain landscape in the Belgian Hautes Fagnes. Our results indicate that both peat thickness and soil organic carbon (SOC) stock (top 1 m) are spatially heterogeneous and that the contributions from the surface topography to peat thickness and SOC stock varied from micro- to macro-scales. Peat thickness was more strongly controlled by macro-topography (R2 = 0.46) than SOC stock, which was more influenced by micro-topography (R2 = 0.21). Current vegetation had little predictive power for explaining their spatial variability. Additionally, the UAV data provided accurate estimates of both peat thickness and SOC stock, with RMSE and R2 values of 0.16 m and 0.85 for the peat thickness, and 59.25 t/ha and 0.85 for the SOC stock. However, similar performance can already be achieved by using only topographical data from the LiDAR sensor (for peat thickness) and a combination of peat thickness and topography (for SOC stock) as predictor variables. Our study bridges the gap between surface observations and the hidden carbon reservoir below. This not only allows us to improve our ability to assess the spatial distribution of SOC stocks, but also contributes to our understanding of the environmental factors associated with SOC storage in these highly heterogeneous landscapes, providing insights for environmental science and climate projections.

Rangelands are important for mitigating climate change and rehabilitating land by storing carbon from woody plants and seeds in the soil. However, there is a lack of empirical data on how traditional rangeland management practices (such as enclosure, communal grazing and prescribed fire) affect the carbon storage of woody species and the conservation potential of soil seed banks. This study evaluates the carbon sequestration and soil seed bank conservation potential of traditional rangeland management practices in the Western Guji zone, Ethiopia. A total of 32 sample plots were established using systematic random sampling, with 12 in each management practice, to measure woody biomass and estimate carbon stock using a nondestructive method. Additionally, 72 soil samples were collected for soil seed bank analysis, with 24 samples taken from each type of rangeland management practice. The study found that enclosures had the highest amount of carbon stocks 63.1 tons per hectare (t ha−1), with a corresponding carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) sequestration of 231.58 t ha-1, followed by communal grazing areas that stored 27.05 t ha−1 of carbon with a CO2e sequestration of 99.27 t ha−1. Prescribed fire had the lowest carbon stocks at 19.39 t ha−1, with a CO2e sequestration of 71.16 t ha−1. The study also found that different traditional rangeland management practices significantly influenced the diversity, richness, and density of woody species in soil seed banks. The highest Shannon diversity was recorded in enclosures (3.56 ± 0.09), followed by communal grazing (2.87 ± 0.14) and prescribed fire (1.27 ± 0.08). As a result, enclosure promotes the storage of carbon in woody plants and increases the diversity, density, and richness of woody species seeds in the soil, while prescribed fire reduces it. Therefore, it recommend for pastoralists to expand the use of enclosures as it improves the potential for conserving carbon stocks and soil seed banks of woody species.

Tropical forests play a significant role in climate change by sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide. However, deforestation and forest degradation adversely affect these forests’ carbon stocks. Reports indicate that anthropogenic activities have led to forest degradation and deforestation in Boabeng Fiema Monkey Sanctuary (BFMS) and Kogyae Strict Nature Reserve (KSNR). This study assessed the effects of these activities on the carbon stocks of BFMS and KSNR. Using satellite imagery, field measurements and allometric models, carbon stocks of the study area were assessed from 1992 to 2023. The assessment revealed significant losses attributed to anthropogenic activities, such as hunting, farming and charcoal burning. BFMS experienced a total loss of 40,236 Mg C, while KSNR lost 272,109 Mg C. The closed forests had the highest carbon stock amongst the different vegetation types, with soil representing the most significant carbon pool in the protected areas, revealing the influence of vegetation structure on carbon sequestration and the need for soil conservation. The substantial carbon sequestration potential observed in the different vegetation types of the study area indicates that the Forest-Savannah Transition Zone is a prospective area for climate change mitigation aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (Goals 13 and 15) and the National Climate Change Policy of Ghana. These findings provide valuable insights for carbon trading and biodiversity conservation, emphasizing the potential of nature-based solutions in addressing global climate challenges.

Push-pull technology is a companion cropping system whose success in soil fertility improvement and management of agricultural pests has been established in cereal-based systems. Push-pull has also been proposed as a template for the sustainable intensification of agriculture in Africa. However, the application of the technology has remained on a field scale and is restricted to cereal-based systems. Trees in agricultural landscapes are considered a strategy for climate change mitigation by storing carbon in soils and woody biomass. However, their potential has not been quantified in push-pull systems. This study characterized 45 smallholder farms in western Kenya to establish the land use categories within which push-pull is integrated, the diversity and structure of perennials on the farms, and the aboveground carbon stored within those farms. The area of each land use category varied depending on the size of the land use category on each farm. The amount of carbon stored in aboveground biomass was estimated using an existing allometric equation. This study found that trees are integrated on farms with push-pull in homesteads (45), cropland (38), woodlots (26), boundaries (4), and grazing land (2) farms. A total of 9159 trees from 97 different species were recorded over 34 ha. Farms in Vihiga and Kisumu had more trees (38 % and 37 % of all trees recorded) than those in Siaya (25 %). There were more trees in woodlots (total=4518) and homesteads (total=3327), and the least in grazing land (total=18). Overall, the highest species richness, Shannon, and Simpson diversity were observed in the homestead (86 species, H’=2.52 and D = 0.86). Farms in Kisumu, Vihiga, and Siaya stocked an average of 12.1, 9.4, and 7.3 Mg C ha−1 in aboveground biomass respectively. Variations were observed in land use categories, where woodlots had the greatest amount of carbon (55.5 Mg C ha−1) while grazing land had the least (2.4 Mg C ha−1). Eucalyptus spp., Grevillea robusta, and Markhamia lutea were the most dominant trees in abundance at 50 %, 16 %, and 11 % respectively. Conservation of trees on farms should be encouraged, as they protect biodiversity and store carbon thus contributing to climate change mitigation. This study's findings contribute to knowledge valuable to farmers and policymakers in making decisions on tree species and land use categories that have a high potential to sequester carbon in agroforestry systems.

ARTICLE HIGLIGHTS - Agroforestry boosts carbon storage, reducing greenhouse gas emissions significantly. - Diverse tree-based farming enhances biodiversity, soil health, and climate resilience. - Carbon sequestration in agroforestry supports sustainable agriculture and environmental balance. - Agroforestry practices mitigate climate change by storing carbon in trees and soil. - Combining trees with crops provides multiple ecological and economic benefits. ABSTRACT One of the processes for compensating greenhouse gas emissions is atmospheric carbon removal and storage in the terrestrial biosphere. Agricultural systems to which trees are returned for careful management alongside crops and animals are thought to be substantial CO2 sinks. People are increasingly realizing the importance of agroforestry because it is good for the environment and farming. In this study, total carbon pools from the aboveground biomass carbon (ABGC), forest floor carbon (FFC), and soil organic carbon (SOC) were investigated and carbon storage data for some agroforestry practices native to Uttaradit in northern Thailand were analyzed. The role of these carbon pools in reducing CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere was also discussed. The results showed differences in the total carbon stock sourced from traditional agroforestry (TAF), applied agroforestry (AAF), and developed agroforestry (DAF). The total carbon store (ABGC + TFFC + SOC) of TAF, AAF, and DAF was 267.05 Mg C/ha, 226.48 Mg C/ha, and 324.70 Mg C/ha, respectively. SOC contributed 47.64%, 54.26%, and 44.81% and ABGC contributed 22.75%, 19.79%, and 23.90% to the total carbon stock in TAF, AAF, and DAF, respectively. The CO2 adsorption was 979.27 Mg CO2/ha, 830.50 Mg CO2/ha, and 1,190.6 Mg CO2/ha in TAF, AAF, and DAF, respectively. It is clear that agroforestry systems serve as carbon sinks in terrestrial ecosystems. Although the comparison of agroforestry practices and other land use types is important for carbon mitigation and the implementation of the “Land Use, Land Use Change, and Forestry” concept for CO2 sinks, it is also crucial to compare the potential of carbon sequestration in different CO2 pools.

The growing demand for land for slash-and-burn cultivation, driven by human population growth, has led to the creation of scattered cultivated fields and a mosaic of fallow areas in various stages of regeneration. While tropical forests have demonstrated the ability to rebound regarding tree species diversity and forest structure following disturbances, the extent of recovery in coastal vegetation in southern Africa remains uncertain and poorly understood. To address this knowledge gap, our study collected biophysical data from smallholder fields, fallow land, and forests to evaluate the structure and functioning of coastal vegetation in Gaza province, southern Mozambique. We established 90 sample plots of 0.1 ha each at different stages of plant succession using opportunistic sampling approach. Within these plots, we recorded the diameter at breast height, total height, and species name of all trees and shrubs. Litter and soil samples were collected in 1 m² quadrats embedded within the main plot. Our findings indicate a high capacity for regeneration following the disturbance caused by slash-and-burn cultivation. Species composition varied significantly across different stages of succession, with 52 species identified in forests (FL), 34 in old fallow (OF), 29 in middle fallow (MF), 28 in initial fallow (IF), and 15 in cropland (CL). Richness and diversity increased over time after the practice of slash-and-burn cultivation, with a noticeable enhancement from the initial fallow stage. We observed a gradual recovery of soil carbon stocks in young fallow areas, while litter biomass decreased throughout the recovery phase of the fallow lands. Our study highlights that areas abandoned after agriculture can regenerate in terms of structure, floristic composition, and tree carbon content.

Abstract Agroforestry plays a pivotal role in mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and addressing the challenges posed by climate change. While carbon sequestration efforts have primarily centred on forests, it is imperative to acknowledge the contribution that non-forest ecosystems, such as agroforestry, can offer. This study investigated the influence of agroforestry systems on the variation of biomass carbon stocks in the Sahelo-Sudanian and Sudanian regions of the Senegalese Groundnut basin. Three primary agroforestry systems were studied: silvopastoral, agrisilvicultural, and agrosilvopastoral. Forty-six (46) 100 m × 100 m plots were sampled, within which 1 × 1 m2 subplots were used to sample understory biomass across three agroforestry systems in the two climatic zones. Analysis of variance was performed to assess the influence of agroforestry systems and climatic zones on biomass carbon stocks. The findings showed that in the Sahelo-Sudanian region, the agrisilvicultural system exhibited the highest AGC + BGC stocks, averaging 43.42 ± 21.61 tCha−1. In contrast, the silvopastoral system showed significantly higher AGC + BGC stocks, which amounted to 36.33 ± 12.27 tCha−1 in the Sudanian region. On the other hand, understory carbon stocks were significantly higher (p

AbstractThe study area, affected by war and siege, necessitates a study of its current ecological status. The objective of this study was to assess the present forest structure, species diversity, and Total Biomass Carbon Stock (TBCS) in relation to environmental variables. The findings shown 42 woody plant species, with 23 in the highland and 41 in the midland. No significant difference in species abundance is observed between the highland and midland areas. However, there are significant differences in the average diameter and height of trees between the altitudinal classes. Additionally, diversity indices shown significant difference, with the midland shown higher values than the highland. TBCS of the forest, the highland and midland areas were 21.02, 15.6, and 22.92 tons/ha, respectively. Moreover, TBCS shown significant contributions from tree diameter and height (p

The plant biodiversity status of many village land forest reserves is little known to support meaningful implementation of sustainable forest management objectives in Tanzania. This study was conducted to assess the status of Litwang’ata village land forest reserve in Ludewa district, Southwest Tanzania through 20 square sample plots of 10 × 10 m. A total of 20 woody plant species belonging to 12 families and 19 genera with DBH ≥ 5 cm were identified in the study forest. The most important species with their importance value index were Brachystegia spiciformis (78.02), Brachystegia boehmii (22.05), Faurea saligna (15.18), Uapaca kirkiana (14), Acacia amythethophylla (13.07), Pseudolachnostylis maprouneifolia (12.76) and Gardenia ternifolia (10.36). The forest had a Shannon diversity index (H´) of 2.27, indicating medium diversity. Stand structure comprised 1,330 ± 523 stems ha–1, basal area of 18.97 ± 6.81 m2 ha–1 and stand volume of 142.36 ± 52.17 m3 ha–1. The mean above- and belowground carbon stocks were 46.97 ± 17.23 Mg ha–1 and 23.90 ± 8.58 Mg ha–1 respectively. The higher tree densities, basal area, stand volume and carbon stocks recorded in this study compared to other Miombo woodlands indicate that Litwang’ata forest is still in good condition, and managment efforts should be strengthened to bolster biodiversity conservation for present and future generations.

Carbon sequestration is obtained from the total accumulation of the element in both soil and plants. The enhancement has the capacity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and influence soil quality and fertility, thereby affecting plant biomass and crop yield. Therefore, this research aimed to compare the total carbon sequestration in rice field with different farming systems, determine soil characteristics, and identify the correlation between the total carbon sequestration and impact on rice yield. An exploratory-descriptive method was used through field survey and laboratory analysis. The locations were mapped by overlaying the Indonesian landform map of the Girimarto District with various rice field systems, soil types, and slopes. Furthermore, the 12 Land Mapping Units (LMU) with 3-time repetitions resulted in 36 sampling points. Data were processed by calculating total carbon sequestration and statistical tests such as one-way ANOVA and Pearson's correlation. The results showed that rice field farming systems affected the total carbon sequestration. Organic farming had the highest total carbon sequestration value of 72.49 Mg/ha and the increase had a strongly positive correlation with crop yield of paddy. Crop yield in organic farming were higher than in semi-organic and conventional systems by 8.92 tons/ha. Factors that determined total carbon sequestration were soil C-organic and microbial biomass C. The suggested improvement recommendations were the transition of conventional and semi-organic farming as well as adding a variety of organic fertilizers such as biofertilizers.

Global warming is a critical factor driving climate change, impacting every aspect of life on Earth. The escalating concentration of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere, the primary contributor to global warming, necessitates immediate action through effective climate mitigation strategies. This study aimed to quantify the biomass and blue carbon stocks in the eastern coastal mangrove forests of North Sumatra and Aceh Provinces in Indonesia, focusing on key sites in Langkat, Deli Serdang, Batu Bara, Tanjung Balai, and Aceh Tamiang Regencies. We measured carbon stock in three carbon pools: biomass (above and below ground), necromass, and soil. By analyzing tree stands using parameters such as tree height and diameter at breast height within circular plots (7 m in radius, 125 m apart), we gathered fundamental data on forest structure, species composition, and above- and below-ground biomass. Additionally, we collected soil samples at various points and depths, measuring the amount of wood, stems, or branches (necromass) that fell to or died on the forest floor. Data were collected in plots along a line transect, comprising three transects and six circular plots each. Sixteen diverse mangrove species were found, demonstrating rich mangrove biodiversity. The mangrove forests in the five regencies exhibited significant carbon storage potential, with estimated average above-ground carbon ranging from 96 to 356 MgC/ha and average below-ground carbon from 28 to 153 MgC/ha. The estimated average deadwood carbon varied between 50 and 91 MgC/ha, while soil carbon ranged from 1200 to 2500 MgC/ha. These findings underscore the significant carbon storage potential of these mangrove forests, highlighting their importance to global carbon cycling and climate change mitigation. This research contributes to a broader understanding of mangroves as vital blue carbon ecosystems, emphasizing the necessity of conservation efforts such as forest restoration and rehabilitation to enhance their role in stabilizing coastal areas and improving global climate resilience.

Changes in land use from high-nature-value grasslands to arable fields reduce the organic carbon stock in soil, increasing atmospheric carbon concentrations. Maintaining grasslands through traditional agricultural techniques can mitigate climate change by transferring atmospheric carbon to the soil. Benefits of soil organic carbon sequestration include improved soil properties and enhanced ecosystem services and biodiversity. With Romania’s ratification of the Paris Agreement, it is crucial to review climate-related agricultural policies and incentivize carbon sequestration practices in organic soils. This paper presents a soil carbon study in Transylvania’s Târnava Mare region, Romania, known for its preserved cultural landscapes. Soil samples were taken at a depth of 60 cm to assess organic carbon pools under grassland and arable land management across three soil classes: Cernisoils, Hidrisoils, and Luvisoils. Several statistical tests were applied to evaluate the most significant drivers of soil organic carbon sequestration including land use, soil class, and soil depth. The results indicate that land management has the largest impact, with grasslands storing 45% more carbon than arable land on average. This finding should be integrated into national climate action plans, prioritizing the preservation of grasslands and sustainable agricultural practices to support soil organic carbon sequestration.

Abstract Natural forests are crucial for climate change mitigation and adaptation, but deforestation and degradation challenges highly reduce their value. This study evaluates the potential of natural forest carbon stock and the influence of management interventions on enhancing forest carbon storage capacity. Based on forest area cover, a study was conducted in nine purposely selected forest patches across various forest ecosystems. Data on diameter, height, and environmental variables from various forest management approaches were collected and analyzed with R Ver. 4.1. The findings revealed a substantial difference (p .029) in carbon stock between environmental variables and management interventions. The findings revealed a strong connection between environmental variables and the overall pool of carbon stock within forest patches (p .029). Carbon stocks were highest in the Moist‐montane forest ecosystem (778.25 ton/ha), moderate slope (1019.5 ton/ha), lower elevation (614.50 ton/ha), southwest‐facing (800.1 ton/ha) and area exclosures (993.2 ton/ha). Accordingly, natural forests, particularly unmanaged parts, are sensitive to anthropogenic stresses, decreasing their ability to efficiently store carbon. As a result, the study highlighted the importance of sustainable forest management, particularly area exclosures and participatory forest management, in increasing forest carbon storage potential.

Forests, covering approximately thirty percent of the Earth's total surface area, are the world's largest carbon sink and a crucial player in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration. However, human activities, both developmental and anthropogenic, have resulted in forest degradation, resulting in biodiversity loss, and increased carbon dioxide concentrations in the temperate Himalayan region, where reliable estimates of above-ground biomass and its variation across the landscape are currently lacking. The present study aims to assess aboveground biomass and carbon stocks along altitudinal gradients and overstorey types in the temperate Himalayan region. Across all altitudinal gradients and dominant overstorey composition types, total, tree, shrub, herb, and bryophytes biomass and carbon stocks on average were 372.7, 369.1, 2.76, 0.77 and 0.10 Mg ha−1, and 177.1, 175.3, 1.31, 0.37 and 0.05 Mg ha−1, respectively. The biomass and carbon stock of total and individual vegetation components differed significantly along the altitudinal gradients and overstorey composition types. Total and tree aboveground biomass and carbon stocks showed a consistent gradual increase along altitudinal gradients, peaking at middle elevations and declining thereafter at higher altitudes. The result highlighted the variation in biomass and carbon stocks in the temperate Himalayan region is influenced by factors such as the presence of individuals in large-diameter classes, higher stem densities with increased basal area, and forest management practices along altitudinal gradients. The study also emphasized the role of dominant overstorey composition types in biomass and carbon stock distribution in the temperate Himalayan region. However, tree, shrub, herb, and bryophyte biomass production responded differently for dominant composition types. Shrub and herb biomass along with their carbon stocks appeared to be positively associated with higher resource availability under deciduous broadleaf overstorey types, while the trees and bryophytes biomass and carbon stocks were found to be higher under coniferous stands. Mixedwood stands, on the other hand, were found to be intermediate between the pure stands, but had higher biomass and carbon stocks at higher altitudes. Therefore management interventions should aim at maintaining a diverse range of overstorey composition types for promoting the ecosystem functions and services of temperate Himalayan forest ecosystems.

The integration of trees into diverse land-use systems holds potential for India to meet nationally determined contribution (NDC) targets under the Paris Climate Agreement. With a target of sequestering 2.5–3 billion tons of CO2 equivalent by 2030, the study focused on the widespread and economically viable eucalyptus-based agroforestry, practiced widely in various planting geometries tailored to meet industrial end-use requirements. In this context, a detailed study was conducted to quantify the influence of five planting geometries [3 m × 3 m, 6 × 1.5 m, 17 × 1 × 1 m (paired row) and two boundary plantations (east–west and north–south directions) at 2 m away from tree to tree] of eucalyptus on intercrops [dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata)—barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) rotation] biomass, soil properties, and carbon stock of the system during 2009–2016. Results revealed that biomass accumulation of different tree components was 62.50%–74.09% in stem; 6.59%–9.14% in branch; 3.18%–5.73% in leaves; 12.20%–20.44% in stump roots; and 1.71%–3.48% in fine roots across the planting geometries. The mean carbon content of the stem, branch, leaves, and roots was 49.00, 47.00, 43.00, and 49.00%, respectively. Over the 8-year period, geometry of 3 × 3 m performed better in terms of total biomass production (344.60 Mg ha− 1 by tree biomass and 62.53 Mg ha−1 by intercrops). The independent parameter, DBH2H (DBH: diameter at breast height and H: tree height), was found to be a very good predictor of dry weight, followed by DBH alone. Among various functions (linear, allometric, logistic, Gompertz, Chapman, and exponential), the best-fit equation was allometric, i.e., B = 300.96 × DBH2H0.93 (adjusted R2 = 0.96) for eucalyptus based on universal model adequacy and validation criteria. The carbon sequestration rate was maximum (20.79 Mg C ha−1 year−1) in 3 × 3 m followed by 17 × 1 × 1 m. The total carbon stock of eucalyptus-based system (tree + crop + soil) varied significantly under different planting geometries and sole crop rotation (dhaincha–barley). The higher carbon stock (237.27 Mg ha−1) was obtained from 3 × 3 m spacing and further partitioning carbon stock in trees—166.29 Mg ha−1, crops—25.01 Mg ha−1 and soil—45.97 Mg ha−1. The paired row spacing (17 × 1 × 1 m) yielded higher crop yield and net returns (Rs. 600,475 ha−1), underscoring wide spacing’s role in system productivity and sustainability. Tree-based systems were valuable components of agriculture, advocating for their widespread adoption to reduce CO2 emissions and generate income through carbon credits. These findings will provide crucial insights into sustainable land-use practices and advance India’s commitment toward adaptation of climate change mitigation strategies.

Unprecedented seasonal forest fires pose a significant threat to the carbon stocks of diverse ecosystems, particularly in regions like Uttarakhand, west Himalaya. Understanding the impact of varying fire frequencies on different forest types is crucial for effective conservation and management strategies. This study aims to assess the loss of carbon stock in three distinct forest types—Sal, Pine, and Mixed across an elevation gradient in Uttarakhand, facing unprecedented seasonal forest fires. By investigating pre- and post-fire conditions, analyzing biomass dynamics, and mapping fire frequencies, the research aims to provide insights into the complex interplay of fire regimes and forest resilience. The investigation covers vegetation analysis, biomass assessment, and fire frequency mapping. Biomass and carbon stock calculations were carried out using a non-destructive sampling method. Fire frequency maps were generated using Landsat satellite imagery spanning a decade, integrating MODIS hotspot data for classification. The study reveals distinct patterns in biomass changes across Sal, Pine, and Mixed forests in response to varying fire frequencies. Sal forests exhibit resilience to low-intensity fires, while Pine forests show higher sensitivity. Carbon stock contributions of dominant species varied significantly, with Sal and Chir-Pine forests emerging as crucial contributors. High fire frequencies lead to substantial carbon stock reduction in all forest types. The findings emphasize the sensitivity of aboveground biomass to fire frequency, with significant carbon stock loss observed in higher fire frequency classes. The study underscores the importance of nuanced conservation strategies tailored to distinct forest types and species characteristics. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers, forest managers, and conservationists in formulating targeted conservation and management approaches.

Resume: The population and economic growth in cities significantly contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, making them potential protagonists in mitigating these emissions. However, there is a lack of research on carbon potential in these areas in the Brazilian northeastern interior. In this context, this study analyzed urban squares as elements for climate change mitigation and global warming, highlighting the importance of these spaces for local biodiversity and sustainability in cities, providing a basis for future research related to the theme in the region. Six squares were selected in three conurbated municipalities (Barbalha, Crato and Juazeiro do Norte, Ceará State) in the Brazilian semiarid zone, encompassing all individuals with a diameter at breast height (DBH) ≥ 5 cm. Carbon quantification occurred through direct means (analysis of leaf, fine branch, and stem samples) and indirect means, using DBH to calculate biomass and carbon. A total of 554 individuals from 39 species and 18 families were recorded, with Fabaceae, Arecaceae, and Bignoniaceae being prominent. The Shannon index (H') ranged from 0.85 to 2.45, the Simpson index (C’) from 0.35 to 0.88, and the Pielou evenness index (J') from 0.38 to 0.86. Mean carbon contents varied from 47.5 % to 57.2 % in different tree compartments, with Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi standing out for high organic matter values (96.2 %) and carbon content (55.9 %) in leaves. Praça da Sé (Crato) presented the highest concentrations of plant biomass and stored carbon and a significant amount of sequestered carbon (709.24). Over one year, an increase of 0.29 t/ha−1 in total biomass carbon and 1.04 t/ha−1 of sequestered CO2 was observed. The results highlight the fundamental importance of urban square flora, identifying them as crucial allies in carbon capture and storage and in reducing GHG emissions.

Maintaining forest biodiversity and carbon sequestration potential of forest resources enhances the provision capacity of forest ecosystem services. Experience from around the world and in Ethiopia has shown that shifting forest management from state-centred to community-centred arrangement can result in a better forest stock. Therefore, this study examined the status of woody species diversity, regeneration and total living biomass carbon stock of forests under participatory forest management (PFM) and the adjacent state managed non-participatory forest management (Non-PFM) in South eastern Ethiopia and implications to REDD+. Data were collected from 89 (44 PFM and 45 Non-PFM) nested circular plots from four PFM and three Non-PFM selected forest sites with transects laid systematically. Tree DBH and height were measured, the number of saplings, seedlings, mature trees were counted and species names were recorded. Woody species diversity was estimated using shannon, simpson, and evenness diversity indices. A total of 29 and 23 woody species were recorded in PFM and Non-PFM forests, respectively. Woody species diversity did not show significant difference between PFM and Non-PFM forests but it was relatively higher in PFM forest. The density per hectare of seedlings, sapling and mature trees were significantly greater in PFM forest than in Non-PFM forest. The mean aboveground biomass carbon stock of PFM forest (225.50±26.54) was significantly greater than that of the Non-PFM (156.24±15.72) forest. Hence, managing forests through participatory approaches contributes to the enhancement of sustainable management and climate change mitigation potentials through reducing emission from deforestation and forest degradation.

This study showed changing patterns in the plant species composition, diversity, and carbon storage potential of different forests along altitudinal gradients (i.e. 100 – 1900 m) in Eastern Himalayan India. Different tree, shrub and herb species were sampled along the altitudinal gradients ranging from tropical to temperate forests through Nested Plot design. In each forest, vegetation sampling was made by establishing a permanent plot of 250 m × 250 m as per ISRO-GBP/NCP-VCP protocol. Individuals of trees ≥10 cm girth at breast height (GBH), shrubs and herbs were recorded in 4, 8 and 16 subplots of 31.62 m × 31.62 m, 5 m × 5 m and 1 m × 1 m, respectively. Community attributes such as species richness, density, basal area, diversity indices and biomass and carbon storages were computed for each study site. A total of 5 forest communities (2 each from tropical and subtropical and one from temperate forest) were identified. The woody species diversity was highest in the subtropical forest followed by tropical and temperate forest. Altitude played an important role in the Eastern Himalayan Mountains in the establishment and distribution of forest community. Forest community composition changes with elevation, for instance, the dominant communities like Dipterocarpus retusus–Phoebe goalparensis–Schima wallichii (D-P-S), Gmelina arborea–Schima wallichii-Duabanga grandiflora (G-S-D), Schima wallichii–Duabanga grandiflora–Alstonia scholaris (S-D-A), Alstonia scholaris–Terminalia myriocarpa–Bischofia javanica (A-T-B) and Acer thomsonii–Rhodendron arboreum–Quercus lamellose (A-R-Q) were present at elevational ranges of 100–300 m, 300–700 m, 700–1100 m, 1100–1500 m and 1500–1900 m, respectively. The study showed that about 41–57% of the tree species exhibited good regeneration followed by 23–30% as fair, 6–16% as poor, and 6–21% species did not show regeneration along the altitudinal gradient. The total biomass carbon (Mg C ha−1) varied from 84.74 to 163.56 in tropical, 103.12 – 156.41 in subtropical and 133.05 in temperate forest. In conclusion, community composition, regeneration pattern and biomass carbon storage changes along altitude because of altered biophysical characteristics. However, despite variations in elevation, factors for forest disturbance at different altitudes significantly contributed to the community attributes and overall accumulation of biomass carbon. Hence, the traditional management practices carried out by local communities also play a crucial role in shaping the structure, composition, and carbon dynamics of forest ecosystems. Understanding the impacts of these practices is essential for promoting sustainable forest management by conserving forests and preserving carbon stocks for mitigating climate change in future. This study emphasizes the importance of long-term forest monitoring to promote biodiversity conservation and formulate conservation strategies that support sustainable forest management policies to which ensure continuous provision of ecosystem services in the region.

The role of Perhutani and local farmers in developing agroforestry in Bogor Forest Management Unit (FMU) is important for carbon sequestration-based climate mitigation efforts. Different compositions of the plants in seven agroforestry systems in four part of Bogor FMU. Farmers adjust the multipurpose crops planted with Perhutani main plants, which are more dominant. The potential mean annual carbon increment based on aboveground carbon stock of agroforestry is between 2.26 to 66.65 tonnes per hectare, while in 2 monocultures land system is between 13.65 to 18.29 tonnes per hectare. The carbon increment in agroforestry systems is better than monoculture because of plant diversity and different ages. Then, carbon revenue using carbon pricing set by the World Bank-FCPF Program in East Kalimantan is in the range of IDR 1,547,325 to IDR 49,292,405 per hectare, using the Social Cost scheme in the range IDR 12,997,535 to IDR 414,056,204 per hectare and using domestic carbon tax is range IDR 635.017 to IDR 20,229,441 perhectare. Regarding carbon revenues, the wider the agroforestry land managed by farmers, the higher the carbon income received. Using the benefit transfer method over a 20-year mitigation period, an estimated 2.19 times increase in carbon revenues is obtained at an inflation rate of 4%.

IntroductionAccording to various censuses, Europe has less than 1.5 million ha of old-growth forests (OGF). Most of them are in the boreal zone, while their presence in the temperate zone is residual and fragmented.In the framework of the EU biodiversity strategy, it has been adopted a broad definition of OGF which includes late-seral forests and forests with some management legacies. However, research purposes need to identify strictly defined OGFs characterized by structure, disturbance history, and processes typical and exclusive of the last stage of the forest dynamic.MethodsThe present paper wants to contribute to this debate by presenting a research network of four mixed (Fagus-Abies-Picea) montane OGFs in the Dinaric Alps (Lom, BiH; Janj, BiH; Perućica, BiH; Biogradska Gora, MNE), summarizing 20 years of multidisciplinary research by focusing on the structural characteristics and the disturbance history of the whole network and their coherency with strict OGF indicators. These sites were selected in relatively structurally uniform study areas, where 142 permanent plots have been established since 2002.Results and discussionThe study sites have a high living (747–1,201 m3 ha−1) and coarse woody debris (CWD) biomass (304–410 m3 ha−1), resulting in the highest forest carbon sink at the continental level (398–484 Mg C ha−1). The presence of large and old trees is one of the critical characteristics of the old-growth stage: in Lom and Perućica, there are 19 trees and 14 ha−1 larger than 1 m at breast height, respectively, and 14 trees and 15 trees ha−1 older than 400 years. In the last three centuries, continuous small-scale disturbances have driven forest dynamics, developing stands characterized by gap-phase dynamics and quasi-equilibrium structure. The Dinaric OGF network presents robust indicators of old-growthness, similar structural characteristics, and dynamic processes across all four sites. Identifying this sub-set of OGF using strict criteria is critical for recognizing conservation priorities and for quantifying, along an old-growthness chronosequence, the current structural differences of managed or recently abandoned forests. Besides, only OGF selected with rigorous criteria can act as a reliable reference for ecological restoration and sustainable forest management as a benchmark for carbon sink and for quantifying the impact of climate change on forests.

Abstract Backgorund Forest plays an important role in the global carbon cycle by sequestering carbon dioxide and thereby mitigating climate change. In this study, an attempt was made to investigate the effects of land use/land cover (LULC) change (1989–2017) on carbon stock and its economic values in tropical moist Afromontane forests of the Majang Forest Biosphere Reserve (MFBR), south-west Ethiopia. Systematic sampling was conducted to collect biomass and soil data from 140 plots in MFBR. The soil data were collected from grassland and farmland. InVEST modelling was employed to investigate the spatial and temporal distribution of carbon stocks. Global Voluntary Market Price (GVMP) and Tropical Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) analysis was performed to estimate economic values (EV) of carbon stock dynamics. Correlation and regression analyses were also employed to identify the relationship between environmental and anthropogenic impacts on carbon stocks. Results The results indicated that the above-ground carbon and soil organic carbon stocks were higher than the other remaining carbon pools in MFBR. The mean carbon stock (32.59 M tonne) in 2017 was lower than in 1989 (34.76 Mt) of MFBR. Similarly, the EV of carbon stock in 2017 was lower than in 1989. Elevation, slope, and harvesting index are important environmental and disturbance factors resulting in major differences in carbon stock among study sites in MFBR. Conclusions Therefore, the gradual reduction of carbon stocks in connection with LULC change calls for urgent attention to implement successful conservation and sustainable use of forest resources in biosphere reserves.

Forests are the potential source for managing carbon sequestration and balancing universal carbon equilibrium between sources and sinks. In view of the importance of biomass, this study makes an attempt to estimate temporal and spatial carbon stock of Godebie National Park, Ethiopia, using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectro radiometer (MODIS), normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), enhanced vegetation index (EVI) and the field inventory data through geospatial techniques. A model was developed for establishing the relationship between forest carbon, EVI, and NDVI in the selected study site. The correlation value between estimated carbon stock with EVI were found as 0.69, while with NDVI, the values were obtained as 0.87 respectively. The regression model of measured biomass with NDVI and EVI was developed for the data obtained during the period 2020-2021. The R2 values obtained were 0.81 for the regression model between estimated carbon stock and EVI, and 0.77 for the regression model between NDVI and estimated carbon stock. The results indicate that the methodology adopted in this study can help in selecting best fit model for analyzing relationship between carbon stock and NDVI/EVI and for estimating biomass and carbon stock using allometric equation at various spatial scales. The produced output map and allometric equation revealed carbon stock distribution of 5.88 t/ha up to 900 t/ha, with an average value of 406.67. Generally, the approaches used on this study can be used by the forest planners, policy makers, and government officials for conservation and protection of the forest ecosystem.

ABSTRACTAccurate carbon (C) stock estimation is crucial for C sequestration research, environmental protection, and policy formulation related to C management. Although research on C stock in forests, oceans, soil, and desert has received increasing attention, relatively few studies have focused on urban C stock. Moreover, the current mainstream methods for C stock assessment, including field surveys and satellite mapping, are characterised by notable limitations, including being labour-intensive and having limited real-time data acquisition capabilities. Therefore, this paper aims to assess urban C stock and proposes a novel two-stage estimation model based on deep learning and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) remote sensing. The first stage is that tree areas recognition via YOLOv5 and achieved 0.792 precision, 0.814 recall, and 0.805 mAP scores, respectively. In the second stage, a grid generation strategy and a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) regression model were developed to estimate C stock based on recognised tree areas (R2 = 0.711, RMSE = 26.08 kg). Three regions with a minimum of 300 trees in each area were selected as validation sets. The experimental results, in terms of R2 and RMSE in kg, were (0.717, 0.711, 0.686) and (27.263, 27.857, 28.945), respectively.

The development of Limboto Lake Site as the pilot area of Gorontalo Geopark is one step in rescuing the lake. This research aims to analyzed the vegetation structure, estimate biomass, and assess the carbon stock value of the vegetatio at the Limboto Lake site. This study employed a purposive sampling method. Important Value Index, a measure used to evaluate plant vegetation structure, was calculated based on Realtive Density, Relative Dominance, and Relative Frequency values. Biomass estimation and carbon stock assessment were conducted using allometric equations. The study’s finding showed that the vegetation surrounding Soekarno's landing area exhibited the highest IVI (sawlogs) scores for Swietenia mahagoni tree at 82.86%, Leucaena leucocephala saplings at 79.56%, and Manihot esculenta seedlings at 46.33%. Leucaena leucocephala consistently achieved the highest IVI score within the Limboto Lake area with a score as high as 76.90%, followed by Leucaena leucocephala on the sapling level with a score as high as 70.03%, and Nauclea orientalis on the seedling level with a score as high as 53.06%. Swietenia mahagoni, Samanea saman, and Leucaena leucocephala are three species with stems that predominate at the sawlog level and sapling, and these stems have high carbon absorption values.

The carbon stock in living forest biomass was quantified based on first-cycle State Forest Inventory (SFI) measurements in permanent sample plots. The total carbon stock in above- and below-ground living biomass was assessed to be 46.9 ±0.4 × 109 tons C and average carbon stock at 52.1 ±0.5 t C ha–1 as of 2020. The State Forest Register (SFR), the primary source of consolidated information on Russia’s forests, estimates the forest growing stock to be 83.1 × 109 m3. The total growing stock volume in the forests, according to the SFI amounted to 113.1 × 109 m3. Owing to the updated and significantly higher growing stock volume, the estimate of carbon stock in living bio-mass is approximately 35% higher than previously reported. The uncertainty of the total and average carbon stocks based on SFI data was substantially lower (approximately ±1%) than that reported in previous studies (±15–30%). Methods of accounting for the carbon stock in living biomass, the results of calculations for forest lands throughout the country, units of the administrative division, and forest zoning were considered. Assessment of living biomass based on representative sampling can substantially improve the relevance and reliability of national forest reporting.

The dynamics and patterns of relationships between the characteristics of Indonesian tropical peat involving a function of time (ages of land use) in the context of land conversion have yet to be widely reported. The effects of tropical peatland use change are generally discussed regarding C emissions, with the limited literature identifying dynamic soil characteristics as these changes occur. This study used a survey method. We identified the physical, chemical, and C stock characteristics of peat in forest locations, oil palm plantations with a land use age of 0-5 years,>5-10 years,>10 years, and agricultural land with a land use age of 0-5 years and >5-10 years to find out the dynamics of soil characteristics. Land use changes from peat swamp forests to oil palm plantations and agricultural land, and the longer age of land use results in an increase in BD (especially at the top layer), ash content, pH, Total-N, total-P2O5, total-K2O, but there was a decrease in water content, fiber content, Organic-C, E400/E600, and soil C stocks. The alignment of economic, social, and ecological interests was directed to water and land management by regulating the area’s hydrological system and increasing peat stability.

The increase in atmospheric CO2 leads to global warming and ecological environment deterioration. Carbon storage modeling and assessment can promote the sustainable development of the ecological environment. This paper took Xinjiang as the study area, analyzed the spatial and temporal evolution of land use in four periods from 1990 to 2020, explored the spatial relationship of carbon stocks using the InVEST model, and coupled the GMOP model with the PLUS model to carry out multiple scenarios for the future simulation of land use in the study area. We found (1) Over time, the types with an increasing area were mainly impervious and cropland, and the types with a decreasing area were grassland, snow/ice, and barren; spatially, the types were predominantly barren and grassland, with the conversion of grassland to cropland being more evident in the south of Northern Xinjiang and north of Southern Xinjiang. (2) The evolutionary pattern of terrestrial carbon stocks is increasing and then decreasing in time, and the carbon sink areas are concentrated in the Tarim River Basin and the vicinity of the Ili River; spatially, there are differences in the aggregation between the northern, southern, and eastern borders. By analyzing the transfer in and out of various categories in Xinjiang over the past 30 years, it was obtained that the transfer out of grassland reduced the carbon stock by 5757.84 × 104 t, and the transfer out of Barren increased the carbon stock by 8586.12 × 104 t. (3) The land use layout of the sustainable development scenario is optimal under the conditions of satisfying economic and ecological development. The reduction in terrestrial carbon stocks under the 2020–2030 sustainable development scenario is 209.79 × 104 t, which is smaller than the reduction of 830.79 × 104 t in 2010–2020. Land optimization resulted in a lower loss of carbon stocks and a more rational land-use layout. Future planning in Xinjiang should be based on sustainable development scenarios, integrating land resources, and achieving sustainable economic and ecological development.

Long-term excessive use of fertilizers and intensive cultivation not only decreases soil organic carbon (SOC) and productivity, but also increases greenhouse gas emissions, which is detrimental to sustainable agricultural development. The purpose of this paper is to identify organic amendments suitable for winter wheat growth in the North China Plain by studying the effects of organic amendments on the economic benefits, carbon emissions, and carbon sequestration for winter wheat fields and to provide a theoretical basis for the wide application of organic amendments in agricultural fields. The two nitrogen rates were N0 (0 kg ha−1) and N240 (240 kg ha−1), and the four organic amendments were straw, manure, mushroom residue (M R), and biochar. The results showed that, compared to N0, N240 significantly increased the yield by 244.1–318.4% and the organic carbon storage by 16.7–30.5%, respectively, but increased the carbon emissions by 29.3–45.5%. In addition, soil carbon stocks increased with all three types of organic amendments compared to the straw amendment, with the biochar treatment being the largest, increasing carbon storage by 13.3–33.6%. In terms of yield and economic benefits, compared to the straw amendment, the manure and biochar amendments increased winter wheat yields by 0.0–1.5% and 4.0–13.3%, respectively, and M R slightly decreased wheat yield; only the economic benefit of the M R amendment was greater than that of the straw amendment, with an increase in economic benefit of 1.3% and 8.2% in the 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons, respectively. Furthermore, according to the net ecosystem productivity (NEP), N0 was the source of CO2, while N240 was a sink of CO2. The TOPSIS results showed that N240 with a mushroom residue amendment could be recommended for increasing soil carbon stocks and economic benefits for winter wheat in the NCP and similar regions. Low-cost M R can increase farmer motivation and improve soil organic carbon, making a big step forward in the spread of organic materials on farmland.

In recent years, the “dual carbon” issue has become a major focus of the international community. Changes in land use driven by anthropogenic activities have a profound impact on ecosystem structure and carbon cycling. This study quantitatively assesses the spatiotemporal changes in cropland occupation and supplementation in the Pearl River Delta from 2000 to 2020 using the InVEST model, analyzing the spatial clustering of carbon storage changes caused by variations in cropland area. The PLUS model was employed to simulate land-use patterns and the spatial distribution of carbon storage in four future development scenarios. The results indicate the following: (1) From 2000 to 2020, the net change rate of cropland area in the Pearl River Delta was −0.81%, with a decrease of 16.49 km2 in cropland area, primarily converted to built-up land and forest land. (2) Carbon storage in the Pearl River Delta exhibited a pattern of lower values in the center and higher values in the periphery. The terrestrial ecosystem carbon storage in the Pearl River Delta was 534.62 × 106 t in 2000, 518.60 × 106 t in 2010, and 512.57 × 106 t in 2020, showing an overall decreasing trend. The conversion of cropland and forest land was the main reason for the decline in total regional carbon storage. (3) The area of carbon sequestration lost due to cropland occupation was significantly greater than the area of carbon loss compensated by new cropland, indicating an imbalance in the quality of cropland occupation and supplementation as a crucial factor contributing to regional carbon loss. (4) Under the ecological priority scenario, the expansion of built-up land and the reduction in ecological land such as cropland and forest land were effectively controlled, resulting in the minimal loss of carbon storage. The soil organic carbon pool of cropland is the most active carbon pool in terrestrial ecosystems and has a significant impact on carbon storage. Clarifying the relationship between “cropland protection measures–land use changes–ecosystem carbon storage” will improve cropland protection policies, provide references for regional carbon sequestration enhancement, and support sustainable socio-economic development.