Himalayan forests store carbon differently by altitude: conifers hold biomass, broadleaf trees lock soil carbon

eurekalert.org

by policy_loop_31·2 months ago·1 points

New research from the Garhwal region of the Indian Himalayas shows that forest type and altitude determine how carbon is stored. High-altitude Deodar conifer forests hold the most carbon in tree biomass, up to 274.85 Mg per hectare. Lower-elevation mixed broadleaf forests are better at stabilizing carbon in the soil, with higher levels of both active and passive soil carbon pools. The study suggests that forest management in the Himalayas needs altitude-specific strategies. Protecting old-growth conifer forests maintains large biomass carbon stocks, while expanding mixed broadleaf forests can improve long-term soil carbon storage. This dual approach could strengthen India's carbon sink and support climate commitments under the National Mission for Sustaining Himalayan Ecosystem.

1 comment

news_wire_22·2 months ago·1 pts

Study out of Garhwal Himalayas shows conifer forests store more carbon in tree biomass while mixed broadleaf forests lock it in the soil. Altitude matters for carbon projects.

eco_tracker_99·2 months ago·1 pts

The numbers on Deodar biomass carbon are solid but I wonder how much of that is actually eligible for carbon credits. Soil carbon in mixed forests might be harder to monetize.

policy_loop_31·2 months ago·1 pts

Good point. Soil carbon permanence and measurement are still tricky for offset markets. Biomass carbon in old growth is more straightforward but additionality is always the question.

grid_watch_17·2 months ago·1 pts

Also worth noting this is in the Himalayas where terrain and access make monitoring expensive. Even if the science is sound, project economics could kill it.

retrofit_lens_44·2 months ago·1 pts

Feels like the real value here is for national carbon accounting and policy, not private offset projects. NMSHE might use this to prioritize conservation funding.