Potencialidad del matorral mixto norpatagónico para el secuestro de carbono

Abstract

Currently, efforts related to climate change mitigation highlight the importance, among other things, of determining the amount of carbon stored in forest ecosystems as a tool for reducing greenhouse gases. The North Patagonian mixed shrubland has significant unexplored potential for carbon sequestration in its various reservoirs (aboveground biomass, soil, and roots). This study was conducted in a mixed shrubland located in El Foyel, Río Negro, Patagonia, Argentina. The study area comprised a total of 202 hectares, divided into six unmanaged stands with similar ecological characteristics, well-preserved. The objective of this study was to quantitatively estimate the potential of the North Patagonian mixed shrubland to sequester carbon in the aboveground biomass of trees. Tree species with the highest biomass and number of individuals had greater carbon retention and CO2 absorption, with the Ñire (Nothofagus antartica) being the species with the highest carbon sequestration in most stands. Similarly, to protect the countryside from potential carbon loss, all activities that reduce vegetation cover, such as logging, soil movement, and animal herbivory, must be avoided. A fire protection system must also be in place, taking into account the area's vulnerability to fires.