The Role of Plants in Carbon Sequestration: Mechanisms, Ecosystem Contributions, and Their Impact on Mitigating Climate Change
Md Ataur Rahman1*, Tahnia Basher2
Australian Herbal Insight 2(1) 1-8 https://doi.org/10.25163/ahi.219911
Submitted: 29 August 2019 Revised: 13 November 2019 Published: 16 November 2019
Abstract
Background: Carbon sequestration is essential in mitigating climate change, with plants capturing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) through photosynthesis. Different ecosystems have distinct carbon storage capabilities, yet these variations and the factors influencing them require further investigation. Methods: This study synthesizes literature on carbon sequestration mechanisms in forests, grasslands, and marine vegetation, examining each ecosystem's storage potential and environmental factors affecting sequestration efficiency. Field surveys, soil sampling, and remote sensing data-informed ecosystem-specific analyses of carbon storage in biomass, soil organic carbon (SOC), and sediments. Results: Forest ecosystems, especially tropical forests, are the most effective terrestrial carbon sinks, storing significant carbon in biomass. Grasslands, while having less above-ground biomass, store up to 90% of their carbon in soil, making them resilient to disturbances. Marine vegetation, such as mangroves and seagrasses, excels in "blue carbon" sequestration due to sediment storage. Agricultural lands have sequestration potential through SOC, though intensive practices often reduce this capability. Conclusion: Plants' carbon sequestration potential varies across ecosystems and is influenced by environmental stressors and human activities. Effective management practices, such as reforestation, agroforestry, and coastal habitat restoration, are crucial to enhancing carbon sinks. Strengthening natural carbon sequestration through sustainable policies and international cooperation is vital for climate mitigation and ecosystem resilience.
Keywords: Carbon sequestration, Climate change mitigation, Ecosystem carbon sinks, Soil organic carbon, blue carbon
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