Canadian Forest Service Publications

Simulations show potential for reduced emissions and carbon stocks increase in boreal forests under ecosystem management. 2012. Boisvenue, C.; Bergeron, Y.; Bernier, P.; Peng, C. Carbon Management 3(6):553-568.

Year: 2012

Issued by: Pacific Forestry Centre

Catalog ID: 34255

Language: English

Availability: Not available through the CFS (click for more information).

Available from the Journal's Web site.
DOI: 10.4155/cmt.12.57

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Abstract

Forests have become a focal point of climate change mitigation and adaptation, and of tradable credit systems, due to their carbon storage potential. But are the objectives evolving from climate-responsible stewardship and environmental certification conflicting? Results: We present modeled evidence showing that ecosystem management and minimizing carbon emissions are not mutually exclusive in boreal forests. Conclusion: Management decisions have substantial implications for forest carbon maintenance, but carbon sequestered outside the system or emission savings from product substitution are also important. A careful accounting will be necessary to properly evaluate ecosystem services trade-offs for forest management. Of further concern is the projected reduction in fire cycle lengths potentially reducing the carbon sequestered in the boreal landscape.