Carbon storage in the Abidar urban forest, Sanandaj, Iran

Urban forests play a key role in CO2 reduction and consequently in controlling climate change. Therefore, quantifying carbon storage is essential to understand the role of urban forests in reducing atmospheric pollution. This study quantified carbon storage in the Abidar urban forest of the Sanandaj in the Kurdistan Province. To achieve the aim, trees, leaf litter, grass biomass, and soil were sampled and analyzed. Results showed the carbon storage of 147.72 t/ha in the Abidar forest; with trees above-ground biomass, trees below-ground biomass, leaf litter and grass, and soil storing 40.29, 8.66, 1.055, and 97.72 t/ha of carbon, respectively. The results also confirmed different carbon storage levels in various species, with Robinia pseudoacacia storing more carbon in above and below biomass than Cupressus arizonica, Chamaecyparis sp., and Fraxinus rotundifolia. The results of the study could be beneficial for urban forestry, green areas management, and urban planning to foster clean air and manage greenhouse gas emissions in urban landscapes.