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Contents Vol 5 (1)

The Role of Plants in Carbon Sequestration: Mechanisms, Ecosystem Contributions, and Their Impact on Mitigating Climate Change

Tahnia Basher 1*, Fahmida Akter 2

+ Author Affiliations

Australian Herbal Insight 5 (1) 1-5 https://doi.org/10.25163/ahi.519943

Submitted: 10 May 2022 Revised: 18 July 2022  Published: 20 July 2022 

Abstract

Background: Carbon sequestration is a critical process for mitigating climate change, with plants playing a central role in capturing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2). While the importance of this natural mechanism is well-recognized, the specific contributions of different plant types and ecosystems remain a subject of extensive research. Methods: This work reviews current literature on the mechanisms through which plants sequester carbon, the effectiveness of various ecosystems in this process, and the impact of environmental factors on carbon storage efficiency. Results:Forests, grasslands, and marine vegetation exhibit varying capacities for carbon sequestration, with forest ecosystems being the most significant terrestrial carbon sinks. The study also highlights the potential of soil organic carbon (SOC) in agricultural lands for carbon storage. Conclusion: Plants play an indispensable role in carbon sequestration, contributing to climate change mitigation. However, environmental stressors and human activities can significantly influence their capacity to sequester carbon. A deeper understanding of these dynamics is essential for enhancing natural carbon sinks and developing effective climate policies.

Keywords: Carbon sequestration, Climate change, Forests, Grasslands, Marine vegetation, Soil organic carbon, Carbon sinks, Ecosystems.

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