Optimizing Carbon Sequestration: The Role of Coconut Palm in Agroforestry
Sriyansu Nayak *
Department of Agricultural Meteorology, College of Agriculture Vellanikara, Thrissur, Zip – 680656, India.
P. Lincy Davis
Department of Agricultural Meteorology, College of Agriculture Vellanikara, Thrissur, Zip – 680656, India.
Balakrishnan Ajithkumar
Department of Agricultural Meteorology, College of Agriculture Vellanikara, Thrissur, Zip – 680656, India.
Arjun Vysakh.
Department of Agricultural Meteorology, College of Agriculture Vellanikara, Thrissur, Zip – 680656, India.
Riya K. R
Department of Agricultural Meteorology, College of Agriculture Vellanikara, Thrissur, Zip – 680656, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Terrestrial carbon sequestration is an essential tactic for mitigating climate change, because atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) has increased significantly since pre-industrial times. The potential of the perennial coconut palm (Cocos nucifera) as a carbon sink and the mutually beneficial effects of incorporating it into intercropping systems are examined in this review. Different techniques such as destructive, non-destructive, remote sensing and GIS methods can be used for estimating the plant biomass and carbon stock. Among all allometric equations are mostly used for estimating the carbon sequestration. Because of their long lifespan, coconut palms can store a lot of carbon; older, taller varieties are better at sequestering carbon. Intercropping systems significantly increase carbon sequestration, storing much more carbon than monocultures. This is supported by a 23% rise in root biomass and a 4% increase in soil organic carbon within these mixed systems. This agroforestry approach provides a comprehensive solution, improving ecosystem services, helping to achieve global climate goals and giving farmers economic resilience through diversified income.
Keywords: Allometric equations, carbon sequestration, carbon stock, Intercropping systems