Speaker
Description
Greenhouse gas emissions from forest management operations are currently gaining global attention for tackling climate change by reducing the carbon footprint of forestry activities. This study aimed to quantify the carbon footprint of a full rotation teak (Tectona grandis) plantation, identifying key emission sources in silviculture and harvesting This study assessed the carbon footprint of teak plantation management in the Mae-Moh Forest Plantation, Lampang Province, Thailand, over a 30-year period. The analysis consisted of two major components: silvicultural practices and harvesting operations. The life-cycle emissions of carbon dioxide from silvicultural practices were estimated at 1726.5 kg CO₂eq ha-1, with annual firebreak construction 1176.0 kg CO₂eq ha-1 and followed by fertilizer application accounting at 338.0 kg CO₂eq ha-1. The first year of establishment generated the highest emissions owing to the implementation of all silvicultural activities. Harvesting operations resulted in 14.2 kg CO₂eq/m³ in final felling, with short-distance transportation identified as the largest contributor (5.3 kg CO₂eq/m³). When aggregated over the full rotation, the 15th year exhibited a peak in annual emissions associated with plantation management. Potential mitigation strategies include optimizing machinery size and operation, implementing regular equipment maintenance, and applying fertilizers according to the soil nutrient status and plant-specific demand. Therefore, an integrated nutrient management system that emphasizes organic amendments is recommended to reduce the carbon footprint of teak plantations.
| Keywords | "Consumption; GHGs; LCA; efficiency" |
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