Carbon sequestration

Definition

Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) to mitigate the effects of climate change. It plays a crucial role in major ecosystems by enhancing their ability to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, which helps regulate global temperatures and maintain ecological balance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Forests are one of the most effective ecosystems for carbon sequestration, as they can store large amounts of carbon in their biomass and soil.
2. Wetlands are also important for carbon sequestration because they store carbon in waterlogged soils that slow down decomposition.
3. Carbon sequestration can occur naturally through processes like photosynthesis or be enhanced through human activities such as reforestation and soil management.
4. Ocean ecosystems play a significant role in carbon sequestration, as they absorb approximately 30% of the atmospheric CO2 through processes involving marine plants and phytoplankton.
5. Effective carbon sequestration strategies are vital for achieving international climate goals and reducing the overall concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Review Questions

• How does carbon sequestration function within ecosystems to support climate regulation?
  • Carbon sequestration functions within ecosystems primarily through the absorption of CO2 by plants during photosynthesis. This process not only helps reduce atmospheric CO2 levels but also contributes to plant growth and ecosystem health. Different ecosystems, like forests and wetlands, have varying capacities for sequestering carbon due to factors like biomass density and soil composition, making them essential in mitigating climate change effects.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of different ecosystems in their ability to sequester carbon. Which ecosystems are most effective and why?
  • Forests are among the most effective ecosystems for carbon sequestration due to their large biomass and ability to store carbon in both trees and soil. Wetlands also play a significant role because their anaerobic conditions slow down decomposition, leading to higher organic matter accumulation. Grasslands contribute as well but typically have lower sequestration potential than forests and wetlands. Overall, the effectiveness of these ecosystems varies based on their structure, composition, and environmental conditions.
• Propose strategies to enhance carbon sequestration in urban areas and assess their potential impacts on climate change mitigation.
  • Strategies to enhance carbon sequestration in urban areas could include increasing green spaces through parks and urban forests, implementing green roofs and walls, and promoting community gardens. These initiatives not only capture CO2 but also improve air quality and provide social benefits. Assessing their potential impacts involves examining how these practices can significantly contribute to lowering urban carbon footprints while also fostering biodiversity and improving residents' well-being, ultimately playing a critical role in climate change mitigation.

Related terms

photosynthesis: The process by which green plants and some organisms convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose, while releasing oxygen as a byproduct.

biomass: Biomass refers to the total mass of living matter within a given area or volume, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, which can be used as a source of energy.

greenhouse gases: Gases in the Earth's atmosphere that trap heat, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming.