Quantification of carbon sequestration in urban forests

Project Lead: Manuel Esperon-Rodriguez, Western Sydney University

Project Partners: City of Sydney

Cities represent 3% of the Earth’s land area, yet they account for over 70% of global CO2 emissions produced by industrial and motorised transport systems. Within cities, urban forests are crucial in providing shading and cooling while providing added benefits by reducing CO2 in the atmosphere through carbon sequestration via photosynthesis and carbon storage in their biomass. However, the overall effect of carbon sequestration depends on factors such as tree species, age, and environmental conditions. This project aims to quantify carbon sequestration in urban forests by integrating data on tree biomass and carbon storage with remotely sensed, GIS, and forest inventory data using as a case study the City of Sydney. We will develop carbon density maps to visualise and analyse carbon storage patterns across the urban landscape of Sydney. These maps will inform land use planning by highlighting areas with high carbon storage potential, contributing to sustainable development practices.

Project Timeline: May 2024 – April 2025