Search

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.

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 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Pruning represents the main tree care activity in cities, where it is carried out to reduce wind-break risk, to ensure road visibility, to reduce infrastructure interactions and damages, and last but not least, for aesthetic reasons. However, pruning is also proven to increase tree susceptibility to disease and it can potentially affect their capacity to provide ecosystem services (ES). This study aims to assess the effect of three different life-long pruning scenarios on urban trees PM10 capture and CO2 stock performance. The total carbon balance of twelve tree species (Acer platanoides L., Cedrus spp., Celtis australis L., Cupressus arizonica Greene, Cupressus sempervirens L., Pinus halepensis Mill., Pinus nigra J.F. Arnold, Pinus pinea L. Platanus hybrida Brot., Populus nigra L. var. 'Italica', Quercus ilex L., and Tilia cordata Mill.) was evaluated, including the disposal of the pruning residues of the trees. In all management scenarios studied, pruning represented an opportunity to increase the crown Carbon stock up to 65 %, taking into account the full reestablishment of the crown. The results suggest considering more frequent and less intense ordinary pruning scenarios as a preferable tree management strategy to optimise the tree ES performance and minimise branch dieback occurrence. In addition, the analysis carried out on four different waste wood disposal methods showed that the open dump scenario was the lowest CO2 eq re-emission choice.

This study aimed to predict distribution and Total Carbon Stock (TCS) dynamics of Acacia abyssinica, Carissa edulis, and Juniperus procera in the Hugumbrda Grat-Kahsu National Forest in current (1970–2000) and future climate scenarios (2021–2100). Bioclimatic, soil, and elevation data were used for modeling using Maxent, with model accuracy evaluated using Area Under the Curve (AUC), Kappa test and True Skill Statistic (TSS). Significant differences were observed in distribution of species between current and future periods under Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) of SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios. The main contributing predictors of the species distribution were temperature seasonality, altitude, and precipitation of the warmest quarter. All species were projected to shift to higher altitudes in the future. Acacia abyssinica’s current potential distribution (42.9 %) could expand to 77.1–99.2 % (SSP2-4.5) and 63.8–72.9 % (SSP5-8.5). Carissa edulis could extend from 54.2 % to 89.5–100 % (SSP2-4.5) and 77.1–87.9 % (SSP5-8.5). Juniperus procera’s might increase from 63.8 % to 91.8-99.7 % (SSP2-4.5) and 78–88.1 % (SSP5-8.5). The projected future climate is expected to result in an expansion of new suitable areas for all three species. The TCS estimates per km2 were 169 (Acacia abyssinica), 46 (Carissa edulis), and 1381 ton (Juniperus procera). In SSP2-4.5, Acacia abyssinica’s TCS could rise from 25,688 to 59,319 tons, Carissa edulis from 8,832 to 16,284 tons, and Juniperus procera from 312,106 to 487,493 tons. In SSP5-8.5, projections indicated 43,602 tons (Acacia abyssinica), 14,306 tons (Carissa edulis), and 430,872 tons (Juniperus procera). The study concludes by recommending the strategic planting of these species in both current and future suitable areas to enhance ecosystem services and ensure their sustained existence in the face of changing climates.

The assessment of tree biomass and its carbon (C) stock at the local and regional level is considered a crucial criterion for understanding the impact of changing environments on the global carbon cycle. In this context, we selected three sites in the western Himalayas, covering parts of Himachal Pradesh and north-eastern Haryana. Each study site experiences distinct climatic conditions, vegetation types, and elevations. We seek to elucidate the determinants of tree biomass and carbon stock across different forest types in the Western Himalayas. We found that temperate forests contributed the most biomass and carbon stock, with Cedrus deodara attaining the highest values of 782.6 ± 107.9 Mg/ha and 360 ± 49.7 Mg C/ha. In contrast, Quercus leucotrichophora mixed temperate had the lowest 286.6 ± 57.2 and 128.9 ± 25.7 Mg/C ha, respectively. Only a few species, such as Abies pindrow, Cedrus deodara, Quercus floribunda, and Quercus semecarpifolia, accounted for significant biomass and carbon stock. The lower elevation subtropical forests had the highest species richness (8–12 species) and stem density (558.3 ± 62.9 to 866.6 ± 57.7 trees/ha). Furthermore, tree diameter, total basal cover, and height emerged as the strongest predictors of biomass and C stock. The remaining variables showed no significant associations, including species diversity, climatic attributes and elevation. Thus, our study extended the assertion that vegetation composition and structural attributes, apart from climatic and topographic factors, are equally important in determining biomass and C stock in forest ecosystems. Our study indicated that the temperate forests in the western Himalayas possess significant carbon storage and climate change mitigation potential.

A growing number of initiatives at global, regional and national scales propose to plant millions, billions or even trillions of trees as a simple solution to resolve complex environmental problems. However, tree planting is much more complicated than it seems. We summarize the multifaceted decision‐making process needed and offer guidelines to increase the success of the proposed ambitious efforts to increase tree cover world‐wide. Given the varied definitions of and motivations for tree planting, it is critical that stakeholders work together to clearly define the biophysical and socioeconomic goals of each project. Then a series of questions must be addressed about where and how (e.g. planting trees vs. allowing for natural forest regrowth) to most effectively achieve these goals and minimize unintended negative consequences, as well as how, when and by whom success of efforts will be evaluated. Key guidelines to successfully increase tree cover include: (a) first addressing the underlying drivers of deforestation; (b) integrating decision‐making across scales from local to global; (c) tailoring tree planting strategies to clearly stated project goals and planning, adaptively managing and evaluating success over a sufficiently long timeframe; (d) focusing on the forest ecosystem as a whole, and not just the trees; (e) coordinating different land uses and (f) involving stakeholders at all stages of the planning process. Synthesis and applications. Tree planting, along with other strategies to increase tree cover in appropriate locations and contexts, can make a valuable contribution to ensuring the ecological and social well‐being of our planet in coming decades, but only if these efforts are considered as one component of multifaceted solutions to complex environmental problems and are carefully planned, implemented and monitored over a sufficiently long time‐scale with stakeholder engagement and broader consideration of socio‐ecological complexities.

Social Forestry (SF) in Indonesia has emerged as a keystone strategy for Sustainable Forest Management. By allocating 12.7 million ha of forest to be managed by local communities, the government has set in motion an ambitious plan for SF to reduce poverty, empower local people, and improve forest conditions. More recently, SF is framed for its opportunity to contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation. This study focused on examining the contribution of SF to the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) goals in Yogyakarta and Lampung. By analyzing spatial data of SF areas and land cover changes using ArcView 10.8, the study assessed the carbon stock potential in SF areas. Carbon stock calculations were based on the 2022 National Forest Reference Level (FRL) for the periods before and after SF implementation. The finding of the study indicated that the carbon stock of SF areas in Yogyakarta and Lampung ranged from 9,214,381 to 9,923,420 ton CO2eq prior to SF, while the current carbon stock ranges from 8,703,489 to 9,393,706 ton CO2eq, representing a decrease (around 5.4%) rather than an increase. Overall, the changes in carbon stock were relatively small and localized, and the magnitude of the increase was insufficient to offset the overall decrease. To achieve the objectives of SF, such as meeting emission targets and achieving sustainable land use, it is crucial to carefully manage forest edges and fragmented forests, as they can contribute to carbon stock losses. Additionally, further studies and research are needed to improve the accuracy of carbon stock calculations, particularly for non-forest categories, which have higher uncertainty in the reference levels

The management of forests is essential for the conservation of biodiversity and climate change. Studies on the variation in forest tree diversity and carbon sequestration by the forests along altitudinal gradients are limited for most parts of the Garhwal Himalaya. The present study was carried out in montane forests in a part of district Tehri of the Garhwal Himalaya, India at four different sites between altitudinal ranges of 850 to 2,200 masl (i.e., 850–1,500 masl under sub-tropical region and 1,800–2,200 masl under temperate region) for vegetation, soil, and carbon stock analysis using different parameters including the existing pressure on the sites for fuel, fodder, timber, grazing, and browsing. All the standard methods were used for vegetation and soil analysis. The highest value of tree diversity (H = 0.48) and concentration of dominance (CD = 0.95) was recorded at 850–1,100 masl altitude under sub-tropical forests. The aboveground biomass density (AGBD) and belowground biomass density (BGBD) ranged from 271 to 703.20 and 83.21 to 163.92 Mg ha–1, respectively. The pH value ranged from 5.63 to 6.86 (0–15 cm) and 6.17 to 7.21 (15–30 cm). Similarly, soil organic carbon (SOC) was reported to range from 1.86 to 2.57% and 1.78 to 2.44% at 0–15 cm and 15–30 cm depths, respectively. Available nitrogen (N) under temperate forests was reported to be significantly higher than at other altitudes. Among the studied parameters, a significant positive correlation was reported between the pH of the soil and the Shannon–Wiener and Margalef diversity indices. The study revealed that the sub-tropical region was more diversified in terms of tree species whereas soil properties were reported to be better in the temperate region. Among the species in the study region, Pinus roxburghii, Boswellia serrata, Quercus leucotrichophora, and Cedrus deodara have shown good potential for carbon storage. Thus, based on the dominant and associated species present in the area, forest management activities may be followed for the survival and regeneration of species with the potential of being the next dominant species in the future.

The world is increasingly facing the conflicting pressures of economic growth and environmental protection, and forests have the capacity to sequester carbon from the atmosphere in large amounts. This study evaluated the biomass, carbon content and microbial activities of a naturally growing Bambusa vulgaris stand at the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), Ibadan, Oyo state. Three clumps were randomly selected for the study and analyzed to obtain the biomass, carbon content and microbial population. After harvesting, the culm samples were divided into leaf, branch and culm components and their respective fresh weights were taken. All the sub-samples were then oven-dried at 65 °C for 48 h and to get the oven-dried weight, a ratio of oven-dry to fresh weight was calculated. The total stand biomass for B. vulgaris was then determined and computed on a per hectare basis, while the microbiota were determined using standard methods. The B. vulgaris stand stored in total 59.37 t/ha carbon of which 30.55 t/ha were stored in the above-ground biomass (culms, branches and leaves), 1.53 t/ha in the below ground biomass and 24.29 t/ha in the soils. The total biomass stored by the stand was 59.42 t/ha, of which 56.59 t/ha was stored above ground and 2.83 t/ha in the below-ground biomass. Total biomass carbon content in B. vulgaris was 32.08 t/ha. The aboveground carbon storage was much higher in culms (16.69 t/ha) than in branches (8.52 t/ha), leaves (5.32 t/ha), in litter fall (0.02 t/ha) or rhizomes (1.53 t/ha). The total soil carbon content was 24.29 t/ha, of which 8.48 t/ha occurred at 0–15 cm depth, 8.19 t/ha at 15–30 cm, and 7.62 t/ha at 30–45 cm depth. A regression model was developed for future predictions of carbon content of B. vulgaris. About 16 microorganisms were identified in the study (10 bacteria and 6 fungi species) with populations ranging with soil depth. The amount of carbon sequestered and the short time needed for bamboo to grow makes it a good carbon sink, thereby helping to mitigate climate change issues.

Agricultural lands occupy 38% of global land surface and are expected to grow significantly in the next years, increasing the need for more sustainable practices, as well as better informed conservation practices of natural ecosystems. Carbon stocks are important estimates for the assessment of potential emissions caused by deforestation, and therefore widely used in strategies to mitigate climate change in agroforestry systems. Although research on biomass and carbon accumulation in agricultural lands is well documented, comparisons with adjacent natural forest areas are uncommon, mainly in tropical regions. Here, we used forest inventory data and allometric models to estimate biomass and carbon stocks of natural vegetation types (gallery forest-GF, morichal-MOR, and savanna-SAV) and oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) crops in the Orinoquía bioregion, in Eastern Colombia. We found that natural forests (GF and MOR) hold 542.45 Mg ha−1 of aboveground biomass, whereas oil palm plantations store 284.87 Mg ha−1. Morichal vegetation, commonly known as peat swamp forests, accumulated the highest aboveground biomass and carbon per hectare among all vegetation types (natural and agricultural), with an estimate of 402.76 Mg ha−1. Thus, although oil palm crops are great reservoirs of biomass and carbon at the landscape level, it is the combination of natural and agricultural lands which assure highest carbon sequestration in the study area. These results highlight the importance of preserving natural areas in agricultural landscapes for climate mitigation and conservation of biodiversity, which may jointly benefit plantations sustainable development.

Stand density and species diversity are two indicators that are highly related to forest productivity. However, the effect of those variables on the productivity of community forest is rarely documented. This study evaluates the influence of stand density and species diversity on timber production and carbon stock in the community forest. The study area was located in Madiun District. A field survey was conducted in four different community forest sites, i.e. Morang, Kuwiran, Randualas, and Kare. The sampling technique was by quadrat method using a sample plot size of 25 m x 25 m. The number of sample plots used in this study was 64 units, which were evenly distributed in every site. Comparison of stand attributes among sites was examined by Kruskal-Wallis test and followed by Kruskal-Nemenyi test on the effects of stand density and species diversity on timber production and carbon stock were assessed separately for each parameter using the generalized least square regression test. The process of statistical analysis was applied using a significance level of 5%. Results show a significant difference in stand volume, aboveground biomass, and carbon stock among sites (P

Existing estimates of carbon stocks in taiga and coniferous-broadleaf forests show that almost half of the total organic carbon in these ecosystems is accumulated in forest soils. Vegetation as the main source of organic matter in the soil interacts with soil biota, which processes plant litter, and, with abiotic environmental factors, determines the processes of formation and accumulation of soil organic matter. Changes in the composition of vegetation are the driver of the dynamics of soil carbon stocks; however, insufficient attention has been paid to the analysis of this issue. This review analyzes the main ways of transferring carbon from the vegetation pool to the soil pool and the influence of three main predictors of vegetation that affect the carbon stock in soils: the amount and quality of litter of individual plant species (species identity) and the structural diversity of the plant community; it identifies gaps in knowledge and proposes some ways of developing this field of research.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the greenhouse gases that causes global warming with the highest concentration in the atmosphere. Mangrove forests can absorb CO2 three times higher than terrestrial forests and tropical rainforests. Moreover, mangrove forests can be a source of Indonesian income in the form of a blue economy, therefore an accurate method is needed to investigates mangrove carbon stock. Utilization of remote sensing data with the results of the above-ground carbon (AGC) detection model of mangrove forests based on multispectral imaging and vegetation index, can be a solution to get fast, cheap, and accurate information related to AGC estimation. This study aimed to investigates the best model for estimating the AGC of mangroves using Sentinel-2 imagery in Benoa Bay, Bali Province. The random forest (RF) method was used to classified the difference between mangrove and non-mangrove with the treatment of several parameters. Furthermore, a semi-empirical approach was used to assessed and map the AGC of mangroves. Allometric equations were used to calculated and produced AGC per species. Moreover, the model was built with linear regression equations for one variable x, and multiple regression equations for more than one x variable. Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) was used to assess the validation of the model results. The results of the mangrove forests area detected in the research location around 1134.92 ha, with an Overall Accuracy (OA) of 0.984 and a kappa coefficient of 0.961. This study highlights that the best model was the combination of IRECI and TRVI vegetation indices (RMSE: 11.09 Mg/ha) for a model based on red edge bands. Meanwhile, the best results from the model that does not use the red edge band were the combination of TRVI and DVI vegetation indices (RMSE: 13.63 Mg/ha). The use of red edge and NIR bands is highly recommended in building the AGC model of mangrove forests because they can increase the accuracy value. Thus, the results of this study are highly recommended in estimating the AGC of mangrove forests, because it has been proven to be able to increase the accuracy value of previous studies using optical images.

Abstract This work aimed to evaluate the energy quality of wood and charcoal obtained from the stem and root of the genus Eucalyptus spp. From the wood, the physical, chemical and energetic properties were evaluated. For the charcoal produced in ovens of the carbonization furnaces model in the industry and produced in a muffle furnace, the physical, chemical and energetic properties were evaluated. Based on the analysis of technological properties, wood from the root has higher basic density (731.45 kg m-3) and lignin content (26.44%), however, the fixed carbon content and higher calorific value of the root (17.54% and 4547.75 kcal kg-1) were lower than for the stem wood (21.36% and 4730.82 kcal kg-1). It is recommended to use the wood from the root, both for direct burning and for the production of charcoal. The charcoal obtained in the industry, compared to that produced in muffle, presented higher energy quality.

ABSTRACT Anthropic activities in their various aspects have promoted soil degradation in the Brazilian semi-arid region (SAB). As a result, significant losses in productivity and in the ability of soils to fulfill their ecological functions have been reported. The present study investigated the effects of degradation on soil attributes and properties under dense (CAD) and sparse (CAE) shrubby Caatinga in Campina Grande, PB, Brazil. Samples from the 0-20 cm layer of soil were investigated via physical (particle size distribution and soil density), chemical (acidity, electrical conductivity, macronutrients, soil organic matter) and microbiological attributes (microbial biomass carbon (C-BMS), basal respiration of the soil (RBS) and metabolic quotient (qCO2) Data were submitted to the Mann-Whitney Test and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Anthropic actions on the CAE promoted the exposure of the saprolitic layer on the surface. This layer has imperfect drainage, low levels of nutrients and organic matter and high sodicity, which contributes to the slow regeneration of vegetation. Carbon stock and microbial activity are significantly lower in CAE compared to CAD. Degradation resulted in losses of supporting ecosystem services (nutrient cycling and primary production) and regulation (erosion control and climate regulation). The results can be used to understand the dynamics of landscapes of low complexity (high degradation) in the SAB and serve as a framework to find strategies to restore the productive capacity of extensive degraded and/or desertified areas in the SAB.

Mature and old-growth forests (collectively “mature”) and larger trees are important carbon sinks that are declining worldwide. Information on the carbon value of mature forests and larger trees in the United States has policy relevance for complying with President Joe Biden’s Executive Order 14072 directing federal agencies to define and conduct an inventory of them for conservation purposes. Specific metrics related to maturity can help land managers define and maintain present and future carbon stocks at the tree and forest stand level, while making an important contribution to the nation’s goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. We present a systematic method to define and assess the status of mature forests and larger trees on federal lands in the United States that if protected from logging could maintain substantial carbon stocks and accumulation potential, along with myriad climate and ecological co-benefits. We based the onset of forest maturity on the age at which a forest stand achieves peak net primary productivity. We based our definition of larger trees on the median tree diameter associated with the tree age that defines the beginning of stand maturity to provide a practical way for managers to identify larger trees that could be protected in different forest ecosystems. The average age of peak net primary productivity ranged from 35 to 75 years, with some specific forest types extending this range. Typical diameter thresholds that separate smaller from larger trees ranged from 4 to 18 inches (10–46 cm) among individual forest types, with larger diameter thresholds found in the Western forests. In assessing these maturity metrics, we found that the unprotected carbon stock in larger trees in mature stands ranged from 36 to 68% of the total carbon in all trees in a representative selection of 11 National Forests. The unprotected annual carbon accumulation in live above-ground biomass of larger trees in mature stands ranged from 12 to 60% of the total accumulation in all trees. The potential impact of avoiding emissions from harvesting large trees in mature forests is thus significant and would require a policy shift to include protection of carbon stocks and future carbon accumulation as an additional land management objective on federal forest lands.

Climate change requires mitigation actions, mainly preventive, by reducing greenhouse gas emissions; however, carbon sequestration is a complementary measure. Although short-term carbon sequestration can be somewhat effective, it is really interesting when it is permanent. Sequestration calculates the carbon removed from the atmosphere over a period, while the stock expresses the cumulative carbon of a forest. Sequestration and stock are closely related, but ecosystem service valuation often focuses on the former, which can discourage forest maintenance. This study analyzes carbon sequestration and storage in four pine forests located in central Spain, comparing its valuation for different equivalence times, a period considered sufficient to compensate for the emission of one ton of CO2 into the atmosphere. Equilibrium equivalence times were calculated for each forest, defined as the period in which carbon sequestration and stock payments are equal; values ranged from 33 to 101 years, with significant correlations with commercial volume and carbon stock. Equivalence times of 30–50 years are reasonable in Mediterranean forest stands with moderate growth and density, while in dense mature stands this time should increase to 50–100 years. Valuing carbon stocks and paying for them in a sustained manner over time promotes sustainable forest management, while the sale of sequestration credits may generate a speculative "greenwashing" market. In addition, payments for stocks can be applied to any forest stand and not only to new plantations. Carbon stock valuation is a win–win strategy for climate change mitigation, sustainable forest management, and rural development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing estimates of carbon stocks in taiga and coniferous-deciduous forests show that almost half of the total organic carbon in these ecosystems is accumulated in forest soils. Vegetation as the main source of organic matter in the soil, interact with soil biota, which processes plant litter, and with abiotic environmental factors, determines the processes of formation and accumulation of soil organic matter. Changes in the composition of vegetation are the driver of the dynamics of soil carbon stocks; however, insufficient attention has been paid to the analysis of this issue. The review analyzes the main ways of transferring carbon from the vegetation pool to the soil pool and the influence of three main predictors of vegetation that affect the carbon stock in soils: the amount and quality of litter of individual species (species identity) of plants and the structural diversity of the plant community; gaps in knowledge and the ways of development of this scientific direction are proposed.

Planted forest plays vital role in tree biomass which stored as carbon through carbon sequestration process and help reduce global warming and climate change effect. Estimation of biomass volume is the important process to determine the carbon contents stored in planted forest trees. Study was conducted to estimate the biomass and carbon content of Pinus caribea trees using allometry models at Bulolo forest plantation in Morobe Province of Papua New Guinea. Study involves center plot of the cluster design in order to collect field data as sample size The field data was collected by measuring stem of Pinus caribea tree species using two variables, diameter at breast height (DBH) and height. Finding reveals that first and highest rank biomass stem content and carbon stocking was 472,4 biomass/ha, followed by 407,076 biomass/ha and the least was 320,97 biomass/ha. Study reveals that biomass stem content and carbon stocking with 407,076 biomass/ha was the more suitable and applicable model for calculation of Pinus caribea in Bulolo forest plantation. Study recommends the log formula derived from the biomass stem content and carbon stocking of 407,076 biomass/ha, as the reliable model to be used for estimation of biomass content and carbon stock of Pinus caribea tree species Bulolo forest plantation and else way in Papua New Guinea.

With increasing concerns raised by climate change, understanding biological processes within cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) agroforest (CAF) and fallow systems is a prerequisite for developing actions related to emission reduction in the shifting agricultural landscape of Cameroon. Carbon (C) stocks and accretion were assessed and modeled in various C components (large trees, small trees, dead wood, litter, roots, soil, and total C) of fallow and CAF systems along a 50-year chronosequence. Several functions were empirically fitted to a time series of C stocks. Large tree, soil, and total C stocks were best described by a logistic growth function while that for small trees by a rational quadratic function. The best-fitted functions explained 72–96 % of C stock accumulation over time. Two metrics describing C stock accretion were derived from these functions: the point of maximum C growth and the C growth coefficient (GC). The rate of maximum growth of total C stock was reached after 12–13 years in both fallow and CAF, with maximum GCs of 6.9 and 6.3 Mg C ha−1 year−1, respectively. Over the 50-year period, the GCs of total C stocks varied between 0.2 and 6.9 Mg C ha−1 year−1, with quick accumulation within the first decade that then slowed until it levelled off after 45 years. Over a period of about 30 years, both systems sequestered a total of ~200 Mg C ha−1. This indicates that cocoa agroforests, a main source of income for local populations, can also provide significant climate change mitigation services.

Most of the basal area in Amazon forest is in large trees, many of which are species of interest for forest management. In forest management these trees are divided into the commercial bole that is harvested for wood production and the stump and crown that are left in the forest where they decompose and emit CO2 over a period of years. Part of the commercial bole is converted to wood products that store carbon according to their durability. The quantification of these components is difficult due to their size, especially in the case of the crown, which causes uncertainties in the estimates of biomass and carbon. Our study estimated the aboveground biomass and carbon of 223 trees and subsequently fit allometric equations to these estimates. Aboveground biomass was calculated from stem volume, wood density and a biomass expansion factor, while total carbon stock estimates used carbon content determined in the laboratory. Linear models (log-transformed) were tested to derive the best-fit allometric model for total aboveground biomass and carbon. The best-fit allometric models used squared tree diameter, tree height, and wood density for biomass, whereas the best carbon model also used carbon content. Our models were more efficient in estimating biomass than were frequently used regional and pan-tropical models. Our equations allow reducing the errors in estimates of forest biomass and carbon stocks, in addition to allowing estimation of the amount of carbon emitted after harvest, although the other models also had good fits and can be used according to the criteria of each researcher and the availability of data.

Biomass measurements are central to understanding and monitoring carbon stocks in the forests. They also assists in assessing the growing stock of a species and biomass energy. Efforts in allometric equation development have grown. This compiled information is an important tool for assessing biomass and associated carbon stocks, the growing stock of a species and biomass energy. Despite this, except for a few attempts, the compilation of available equations has received little attention, particularly in Ethiopia. The uncertainty involved in biomass estimation is also associated with the choice and errors of the equations. The aim of the present paper is thus to review and compile available biomass and volume allometric equations and to critically synthesise quality control procedures for the equations. A total of 767 equations for both volume and biomass were collected from 47 articles, theses and dissertations, representing 47 sites in Ethiopia. Of these, 49% of the equations were developed for the Dry Afromontane biome, 22% for the Acacia-Commiphora biome, 15% for the Combretum-Terminalia biome and 14% for the Moist Afromontane biome. Among the compiled equations, biomass equations comprised 86.7% while the remainder 13.3% were for volume. Although a wide range of natural variations resulted in diverse species in Ethiopia, the already available equations were constrained by the size of individual samples, tree diameter range, tree species and spatial coverage. Moreover, variability in equation presentation and the missing of some relevant statistical parameters or inconsistent statistical analysis were among the problems observed. A quality control procedure revealed that 45 allometric equations had verification problems and were inappropriate for application. Invalid numeric values that may over- or underestimated values were predicted in 42% of the equations. Moreover, seven equations predicted “unrealistic” values, which were low values (4 equations) or both negative and low estimates (3 equations) within their interval of calibration. Altogether, 174 equations (22.7%) were statistically credible equations. These missing information affected the use of the equations and led to the preference of the generalised equations to assess forest biomass stocks. This highlighted important research gaps. The compiled database will also be useful to minimise duplication of efforts and enable efficient utilisation of limited resources, particularly in developing countries such as those in Eastern Africa and beyond in the tropics.

Abstract Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) assists in investigating functional groups of soil organic matter (SOM). However, the use of this tool is impaired given the low organic carbon levels and high content of oxides in tropical soils, resulting in low quality spectra and in turn requiring the use of hydrofluoric acid (HF). The objective of this study was to verify the efficiency of using HF in removing the mineral fraction and to increase the C concentration to enable visualizing the bands related to SOM in infrared spectra in soil samples under forest system. The HF treatment was efficient in removing mineral components and proportionally increasing C. The FTIR with HF enabled identifying differences between coarse and fine fractions. The spectra of the HF samples showed that the coarse fractions presented bands related to aromatic material and the fine fractions presented more labile components, with the absence of more recalcitrant components.

Estimation of forest floor loading is important for many forest management applications, especially those related to fire management and carbon balance. We quantified the physical properties (depth, fuel load, bulk density) and carbon stocks of endemic Dalmatian black pine (Pinus nigra J.F. Arnold subsp. dalmatica [Vis.] Franco) forest floor layers. We also examined how these properties differ with stand age and layer. Forest floor depths ranged from 1.5 cm to 11.5 cm and forest floor fuel (FFF) loads ranged from 11.9 Mg ha-1 in the young stand to 197.3 Mg ha-1 in the old stand. Forest floor carbon (FFC) stocks ranged from 6.4 Mg C ha-1 in the young stand to 85.8 Mg C ha-1 in the old stand. We developed regression equations that can be used to convert the investigated forest floor depth into load in each layer individually and across all layers. These equations, together with the organic carbon (OC) concentration determined here for individual forest floor layers, simplify quantification of carbon stocks in the forest floor. Bulk density (BD) values reported here can also be used to convert depth measurements to loads for each layer and the entire forest floor. The results presented here are suitable for rapid estimation of FFF loads and FFC stocks based solely on forest floor depth, without the need to sample and analyze large amounts of forest floor fuels. Similarly, spatial distribution in FFF loads and carbon stocks can be assessed simply by measuring forest floor depths.

Woody-biomass is an important indicator for good vegetation cover, and a healthy environment that provides ecosystems services such as supplying, provisioning, regulating, esthetic, and cultural values. Moreover, woody-biomass stores a very good amount of carbon dioxide as about fifty percent of living organisms are built from carbon. The objective of this study is to estimate the above and belowground woody biomass and carbon stock of Kunzila watershed, Northwest Ethiopia as a piece of baseline information so as to gage the changes after the intervention. The watershed covers about 11,200 ha of land with undulating topographic landscapes. More than 230 sample plots of 30 m by 30 m were surveyed and every woody plant (shrub/bush and tree) was measured. Allometric equations were applied to calculate biomass and carbon stock potential at the plot level. The Random forest algorithm was applied to upscale plot values to watershed level. The results indicate that Kunzila watershed offers maximum biomass of 1,756(±249) Mt year−1/watershed and corresponding carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) of 3,022(±429) Mt C year−1 /watershed with the current vegetation status; while the average woody biomass and CO2e were estimated about 244(±249) Mt ha−1 year−1 and 425(±429) Mt C ha−1 year−1, respectively. These results indicate that there are high variabilities among different ecosystem types and also the watershed generally offers below its potential. However, there is a high potential to achieve up to triples of biomass and CO2e by implementing recommended intervention plans developed out of the current study. The current approach using machine learning algorithm to upscale from sample plot-level to watershed scale is a very good one and can be applied to other watersheds at scale.

Forests are the world's largest carbon sink and play a vital role in climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration; thus the assessment of carbon stock in the forests is important for policy prescription and management planning. In view of this, present study is an attempt to assess the biomass and carbon stock of tree species in selected subtropical and temperate forest stands along the vertical elevation gradient (300 m to 2250 m) in the Central Himalaya. Volumetric equations (allometric method) were used for various tree species along with field sampling/ assessment (quadrat method) for biomass and carbon sequestration potentials. The total tree biomass and carbon stock of dominant forest stands varied from 227.23 to 577.16 Mg ha−1 (megagram per hectare), and 107.93 to 274.15 Mg C ha−1 respectively; it was found maximum for Sal (Shorea robusta) dominated forest and minimum for mixed Oak forest (Quercus floribunda, Q. lanuginosa, Q. leucotrichophora etc.). The carbon sequestration was recorded maximum (4.83 Mg C ha−1 yr−1) for Chir-pine stand (Pinus roxburghii) followed by Sal (4.63 Mg C ha−1 yr−1), mixed Oak (4.47 Mg C ha−1 yr−1), and minimum (3.99 Mg C ha−1 yr−1) for temperate Banj-oak forest (Quercus leucotrichophora). The contribution of above and below ground biomass among different forest stands was recorded 82% and 18% respectively. The dominant species contributed maximum biomass and carbon stock (70–82%) in pure Sal, Chir-pine and Banj-oak stand, while the contribution of dominant and co-dominant species in the mixed forest varied depending on forest composition. The results reveal higher carbon stock for subtropical forest as compared to temperate forest; however, it is interesting that there is no significant difference in carbon sequestration among the different forest stands. The study recommended for the assessing biomass and carbon stock of different forests for long-term management of forests and climate change mitigation.

Stationary studies of the decline dynamics on the 21st Norway spruce forest stands in the Ukrainian Carpathians were conducted in 2010-2014. The analysis of the research results made it possible to assess the environmental impacts of their decline for the following forest types: wet European cedar pine – Norway spruce fairly poor, wet pure Norway spruce fairly fertile, wet Common beech – Silver fir – Norway spruce fairly fertile, wet Common beech – Norway spruce – Silver fir fairly fertile and wet Common beech – Norway spruce – Silver fir fertile. The as-sessment of the ecological effectiveness of the regional Norway spruce forests has been carried out in the context of solving urgent environmental problems: biodi-versity conservation, climate change mitigation, and improvement of the conditions for forest recreation. Dynamics of the plants’ diversity in the spruce forests declining were mainly (on the 91% of the objects) aimed at increasing of the plant species number– in average on 49%. By age groups, the smallest increase was in pole stands (23%), the biggest (86%) – in pre-mature and 42-46% – in the mature and over mature spruce stands. By declining stages, it has established a clear tendency to reduce the intensity of the growth of species number from the stage of initial declining to the stage of declining stabilization. The declining intensity was a key for determining of the dynamics of the plants’ diversity. The dynamics of the carbon storage in the declining spruce forests were mainly (on the 55% of objects) aimed at increasing too, but the average changes is -2.3%. Maximum changes in carbon stock were set in the following conditions: wet Common beech – Norway spruce – Silver fir fairly fertile– increasing on 3%; wet Common beech – Silver fir – Norway spruce fairly fertile– decreasing on 11%. By age groups, the carbon stock increased in the middle-age and pre-mature, but decreased in the mature and over mature spruce stands. By declining stages, the carbon stock changes were characterized by maximum (+ 0.2%) at the initial stage, minimum (-6.2) – at the stage of progressive declining and average values (-2.5%) – at the stage of declining stabilization. Holding and the intensity of sanitary felling determine the dynamics of carbon stocks. Changes in the volume of oxygen production in the declining spruce forests had the trend to decreasing on the 91% of objects – an average of 8.0%. By age group, these changes were not significant (from -6.2 to -9.2%), had trend to in-creasing the losses of oxygen production from middle-age, and pre-mature to ma-ture and over mature spruce stands. By declining stages, these changes were not significant too: at the initial stage was decreasing on 10%; within progressive de-clining – decreasing on 12%; at the declining stabilization stage – there were prac-tically no losses. It was explained by the maximum losses of organic matter on the initial and progressive declining stages. It is concluded that the ecological results of the Ukrainian Carpathians spruce forests’ decline for most of the indicators are positive (increase of phytodiversity, formation of stable mixed forest stands, increase of the carbon storage without sanitary cuttings), but for some indicators are negative (reduction of the carbon storagewith sanitary cuttings, deterioration of oxygen production efficiency).

Climate change requires mitigation actions, mainly preventive, by reducing greenhouse gas emissions; however, carbon sequestration is a complementary measure. Although short-term carbon sequestration can be somewhat effective, it is really interesting when it is permanent. Sequestration calculates the carbon removed from the atmosphere over a period, while the stock expresses the cumulative carbon of a forest. Sequestration and stock are closely related, but ecosystem service valuation often focuses on the former, which can discourage forest maintenance. This study analyzes carbon sequestration and storage in four pine forests located in central Spain, comparing its valuation for different equivalence times, a period considered sufficient to compensate for the emission of one ton of CO2 into the atmosphere. Equilibrium equivalence times were calculated for each forest, defined as the period in which carbon sequestration and stock payments are equal; values ranged from 33 to 101 years, with significant correlations with commercial volume and carbon stock. Equivalence times of 30–50 years are reasonable in Mediterranean forest stands with moderate growth and density, while in dense mature stands this time should increase to 50–100 years. Valuing carbon stocks and paying for them in a sustained manner over time promotes sustainable forest management, while the sale of sequestration credits may generate a speculative “greenwashing” market. In addition, payments for stocks can be applied to any forest stand and not only to new plantations. Carbon stock valuation is a win–win strategy for climate change mitigation, sustainable forest management, and rural development.

In Southern Africa there are no local allometric models that can precisely and accurately estimate tree carbon stocks in community managed forests. This study developed the local allometric models for estimating tree carbon stocks in community managed forests and tested predictive performance of existing models when applied on community managed forests. While the developed allometric models are robust in tree carbon estimation, the existing allometric models underestimated the tree carbon stocks in community managed forest. As such, it is recommended that estimation of tree carbon from community managed Miombo woodlands employ locally developed models in order to improve accuracy of forest carbon estimation to protect community members against revenue loss when engaging in carbon trade.

This study was carried out in the teaching and research forest of the University of Dschang in Belabo, with the aim of analysing land-cover and land-use changes as well as carbon stocks dynamic. The databases used are composed of three Landsat satellite images (5TM of 1984, 7ETM + of 2000 and 8OLI of 2016), enhanced by field missions. Satellite images were processed using ENVI and ArcGIS software. Interview, focus group discussion methods and participatory mapping were used to identify the activities carried out by the local population. An inventory design consisting of four transects was used to measure dendrometric parameters and to identify land-use types. An estimation of carbon stocks in aboveground and underground woody biomass was made using allometric models based on non-destructive method. Dynamic of land-cover showed that the average annual rate of deforestation is 0.48%. The main activities at the base of this change are agriculture, house built-up and logging. Seven types of land-use were identified; adult secondary forests (64.10%), young secondary forests (7.54%), wetlands (7.39%), fallows (3.63%), savannahs (9.59%), cocoa farms (4.28%) and mixed crop farms (3.47%). Adult secondary forests had the highest amount of carbon (250.75 t C ha−1). This value has decreased by more than 60% for mixed crop farms (94.67 t C ha−1), showing the impact of agricultural activities on both forest cover and carbon stocks. Agroforestry systems that allow conservation and introduction of woody species should be encouraged as part of a participatory management strategy of this forest.

Prosopis juliflora is one of the suitable tree species used as vegetation cover for sand dunes fixation. The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of P. juliflora afforestation and its canopy coverage classes on soil carbon (C) stock and nutrient status in sand dunes after 22 years since afforestation. We hypothesized that increasing the canopy coverage would result in higher soil C stocks and nutrient content. We selected two 10-ha afforested sand dunes with 25-50% and more than 75% canopy coverage, respectively, and a 10-ha non-afforested dune (control). At each site, 15 soil samples were taken at two depths (0-5 cm and 5-50 cm). The results indicated a strong increase in the topsoil C stock (from 0.54 to 4.49 tC ha-1 in control and afforested sites, respectively), while a lower change in subsoil C stock was detected (3.0 and 4.6 tC ha-1 in control and afforested sites, respectively). Although, different canopy classes resulted in no significant differences in soil C stock, significant differences were observed for all the soil physico-chemical properties that were studied.

Blue carbon pertains to carbon stock that is stored by marine ecosystems including mangrove forest. Density and blue carbon stock assessment was conducted covering mature Rhizophora stylosa Griff. plantations in Bohol, Philippines. Three stand types were assessed: thinned mature stand (0.34 tree m−2 at 55 years old; 35 ha); non-thinned mature stand (1.2 tree m−2 at 55 years old; 20 ha) and young stand (2.6 tree m−2 at 20 years old; 150 ha). These plantations were initially established with a plant spacing of 0.5 m × 0.5 m. Non-destructive plot sampling technique was used to account biomass and carbon stocks of trees and sediments. Five (5) sample plots measuring 200 m2 were allocated for each stand type. Results showed that the total carbon stock of plantations amassed to 64.5 ktC or 236.6 ktCO2e. More than half (at least 54%) of this stock is imbedded in sediment. Individual accounts showed that carbon stock was largest in non-thinned stand with 435.2 tC ha−1, followed by thinned stand (408.5 tC ha−1) and young stand (276.8 tC ha−1). There was no significant difference between thinned and non-thinned mature stands carbon stocks. Such finding suggested the potential of having thinning intervention. Following the self-thinning rule of 1.1 to 1.3 tree m−2, the local community can harvest as much as 423 trees ha−1 yr−1 for 35 years starting at the plantation age of 20 years. Further, the additional carbon stock between the ages 20 to 55 years could reach about 580 tCO2e ha−1 with an economic value of USD 2,962 ha−1. With this potential benefits, it is recommended that Banacon Island should pursue a carbon offset project for its plantations.

The objective of this study was to verify a possibility of the assessment of carbon stock above all in forest aboveground biomass in the area of Czech Republic based on Landsat data and terrestrial mapping of land cover. Landsat 7 ETM+ data and method based on vegetation index ND45 were used. Simultaneously the aboveground carbon stock was assessed by expert based estimations of carbon in aboveground biomass in the various classes of landscape cover, derived from Corine Land Cover 2012 data. By comparison of results obtaining by both methods for the whole investigated area in the Czech Republic the differences reached only 4.68% and for forest stands 7.19%. The results of aboveground carbon stock based on the Landsat 7 ETM+ data did not differ distinctly from the assessment of carbon stock for individual classes of land cover for both vegetation cover of the Czech Republic and forest stands.

In Slovakia, the contribution of young stands to the total forest area has been increasing in the last decade. However, scientific attention to these stands was previously very sparse and they were usually not included in local and country carbon stock estimates. Therefore, we focused on the calculation of tree biomass and necromass in young beech and spruce stands as well as on their development during the period of nine years (aged from 4 to 12 years). For the calculation, we implemented allometric equations using tree diameter and height as independent variables. The results showed very dynamic changes in biomass (carbon) stock. Specifically, tree biomass increased in the period of 9 years from about 2,000 g to 15,000 g (i.e. cca 1,000 to 7,500 g of carbon) per m2 in beech, and from 4,500 to 12,000 g (cca 2,300 to 6,000 g of carbon) per m2 in the spruce stand. At the same time, the amount of biomass (fixed carbon) was only slightly larger than the accumulated quantity of necromass (carbon loss from living trees). It means that a large portion of carbon was allocated to necromass. We found that not only the foliage fall but also the mass of dead trees, a result of intensive competition, was an important path of carbon flux to necromass. The results proved that although young forests fix much less carbon in their biomass than old stands, they can represent large carbon flux via annual increment of necromass. This indicates that young stands should not be omitted in forest carbon balance estimates of the country.

Tree stands in community forest have potential to absorb carbon in the air by storing in the body parts of the tree.  This study aims to determine the effect of community forest’s stand types on the number of reserves and carbon uptake.  The sampling method used is the cluster sampling method to determine the sample.  Biomass data are collection destructive and non destructive methods.  Estimation of biomass is carried out using the allometric equations.  Measurement of carbon content using the formula from BSN (2011) x 0.47. Comparative  analysis of carbon reserves and removals uptake using the variance test  and 5 % BNT test. Public  forests in the Negara Ratu II village with gold teak stands have carbon reserves and removals (135.87 tons/ha and 499,00 ton/ha). the most significant compared to community forests with other types of stands. While the reserve value and carbon uptake between white teak (44.86 tons/ha and 164.63 tons/ha), acacia (54.13 tons/ha and 191.20 tons/ ha), red jabon (51.20ton/ha and 187.90 tons/ha), white jabon (59.51 tons/ha and 218.40 tons/ha), is no different. Â

Forests had an important role in carbon reserve and uptake: where this was one of efforts of global warming’s impacts mitigation. The aim of this research was to know the effect of  density in potential of  carbon reserve and uptake in the private forest. Data collection was carried out by survey;  then the collected data were analyzed for tree biomass, necromass, litter and ground plants, total of carbon stock in one area, suitability of carbon stock, CO2 absorbtion, and the differences in carbon stock and carbon uptake in each of density class. The result showed that, forests with low density were significantly lower in stored carbon and CO2 absorption, respectively 54.57 tons/ha and 200.27 tons/ha. In medium and high density forests, both the amount of stored carbon and CO2 uptake were no different. At medium density, stored carbon was 79.78 tons/ha, and CO2 absorption was 292.79 tons/ha. In high density, stored carbon was 92.94 tons/ha and CO2 absorption was 341.09 tons/ha.

Tree height is one of the key parameters for estimating forest aboveground biomass (AGB). Traditionally, the tree height is measured by hypsometers, which are widely used to validate terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) and Airborne LiDAR (ALS). However, the measurements from hypsometers are subject to huge uncertainties in comparison with TLS and ALS. The error associated with the height measurements propagate into the AGB estimation models, and eventually downgrade the accuracy of estimated AGB and the subsequent carbon stock. In this article, we test the use of hypsometer, TLS and ALS in a tropical lowland rainforest to measure the height (H) and diameter at breast height (DBH) and take Airborne LiDAR as a benchmark with high accuracy and fidelity in height measurements. The results revealed that, the field height measured by hypsometer underestimated the tree height with root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 3.11, whereas the TLS underestimated height with RMSE of 1.61, when Airborne LiDAR was used as a benchmark to validate the field measurement and TLS. Due to significant differences in derived height measurements, the AGB and carbon stock also varied remarkably with values of 146.33 and 68.77 Mg from field measurements, 170.86 and 80.31 Mg from TLS, 179.85 and 84.53 Mg using the Airborne LiDAR. Considering the Airborne LiDAR measurement as the most accurate, the AGB and carbon stock from field measurement represent 85.55% of total AGB and carbon stock estimation from Airborne LiDAR. Meanwhile, TLS measurements reflect 95.02% of AGB and carbon stock benchmarked with the measurements from Airborne LiDAR data. The results demonstrate the huge uncertainty in height measurement of large trees in comparison with small trees indicated by the significant differences. It was concluded that AGB and carbon stocks are sensitive to height measurement errors derived from various methods for measuring the tree height, the size of trees as large trees are difficult to measure height using hypsometer and TLS as opposed to small trees that are visible as well as the forest conditions. Compared with Airborne LiDAR, TLS achieved the higher accuracy of height estimation (R2 = 0.91 with RMSE of 1.61) than the hypsometer (R2 = 0.61 with RMSE of 3.11). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]