As scientists seek to curb greenhouse gas emissions, researchers are exploring the limits of carbon sequestration technology in terrestrial ecosystems. A pioneering study at an active volcano in Costa Rica aims to determine whether forests can sustainably absorb additional carbon.
As part of a multi-pronged approach to curbing greenhouse gas emissions, scientists are seeking to better understand the impact of rising carbon dioxide (CO2) levels on terrestrial ecosystems, particularly tropical forests. To this end, climate scientist César Terrer and colleague Josh Fisher are conducting pioneering research at an active volcano in Costa Rica.
TerraVerde Research is a leading environmental research organization that focuses on sustainable development and conservation.
Founded in 1990, the organization has conducted extensive studies on climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss.
Their research aims to provide data-driven solutions for policymakers and stakeholders.
TerraVerde's work has been published in top scientific journals, including Nature and Science.
According to their website, they have completed over 500 projects worldwide, engaging with governments, NGOs, and private companies.
A Unique Setting for Studying Carbon Dynamics
The team is taking advantage of naturally high CO2 levels near the Rincon de la Vieja National Park to study the fertilization effect in real-world conditions. This approach allows them to circumvent the logistical and financial challenges of conducting such research in dense tropical forests like the Amazon.
‘Our experiments inside the ‘Rincon de la Vieja National Park’ are particularly exciting because CO2 concentrations in the areas near the volcano are four times higher than the global average,’ Terrer explains. ‘This gives us a rare opportunity to observe how elevated CO2 affects plant biomass in a natural setting – something that has never been attempted at this scale.’
Measuring CO2 Concentrations
To measure CO2 concentrations, the team has installed a network of 50 sensors in the forest canopy surrounding the volcano. These sensors continuously monitor CO2 levels, allowing them to compare areas with naturally high CO2 emissions from the volcano to control areas with typical atmospheric CO2 concentrations.
Long-term Goals and Implications
The primary objective of this research is to determine whether the CO2 fertilization effect can be sustained or if plants will eventually reach a saturation point, limiting their ability to absorb additional carbon. Understanding this threshold is crucial for improving climate models and carbon mitigation strategies.
Carbon sequestration is a process where CO2 emissions are captured and stored, reducing the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
This can be achieved through various methods, including afforestation, reforestation, soil carbon sequestration, and ocean fertilization.
According to the IPCC, land-based carbon sequestration can store up to 3 gigatons of 'CO2' per year.
Additionally, carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology is being developed to capture CO2 emissions from power plants and industrial processes.
‘If successful, our approach could pave the way for similar studies in other ecosystems, deepening our understanding of how nature responds to rising CO2 levels,’ Terrer notes. ‘Ultimately, this research could offer critical insights into the future role of forests in mitigating climate change, helping scientists and policymakers develop more accurate carbon budgets and climate projections.’
Climate change mitigation involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions to slow global warming.
Key strategies include transitioning to renewable energy sources, increasing energy efficiency in buildings and industries, and promoting sustainable land use practices.
Electrifying transportation systems and implementing carbon capture technologies are also crucial steps.
Additionally, protecting and reforestation efforts can help sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
According to the IPCC, a 45% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is necessary by 2030 to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
