Distribution, Estimation of Carbon Storage and Sequestration of Pelthoporum pterocarpum Species: A Case Study of Universiti Teknologi MARA, Seri Iskandar Green Campus

Abstract

Trees in Malaysia serve various purposes, including their aesthetic appeal due to lush foliage and vibrant flowers. However, they hold additional significance by offering numerous environmental advantages, particularly concerning carbon storage and sequestration and their function to absorb excess carbon that affects global warming. Despite their importance, estimating carbon storage for most tropical trees in open space, roadside planting, and urban trees has been challenging due to limited research and unclear methodologies. Addressing this gap, this preliminary study aims to focus on mapping and developing a basic carbon sequestration estimation method for the Pelthoporum pterocarpum species, a heritage tree that was among the mostly planted trees within the UiTM Perak Green Campus open space and one of the best tropical trees that has a high percentage of carbon storage and sequestration. The study calculated the carbon sequestration rate using biomass equations and data from field mapping, inventories, measurements, plan analysis, and surveys. To facilitate efficient data management, the researchers leveraged Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, an influential urban forest data organization tool. The study's significant finding was accurately representing tree distribution and positions on the 2D trail map. These outcomes hold immense value for decision-makers as they provide a systematic inventory database and a 2D map, supporting future planning, estimating carbon storage, and efficiently managing tropical trees in open space, roadside planting, and trees in urban parks.