Carbon sequestration in Populus deltoides based agroforestry system in Northern India

Abstract

Globally carbon storage and sequestration in agroforestry systems are playing a pivotal role in combating climate change and a proven low cost technology for reducing greenhouse gas emission. Trans Indo-Gangetic plain with deep fertile alluvium witnessed green revolution but now the productivity becomes stagnant. Introduction of agroforestry systems improved the soil fertility and micro-environment however; limited information is available on sequestration potential of Poplar based agroforestry systems in Northern India. The objective of this review is to improve and update our present state of knowledge on Poplar based agroforestry system in Northern India for better adoption in other regions of India. Populus deltoides based agroforestry systems in Trans-Gangetic Plains of India showed promising carbon sequestration rate ranging from 0.85 to 5.05 Mg C ha-1 y-1 at 0-15 cm soil depth under different plantation age (4-11 years). It can be concluded that Poplar based agroforestry systems are sustainable land use system for increasing biological productivity (biomass), soil carbon and fertility as well as other ecosystem services. From the results, it is evident that integrating Poplar with the crops (rice/wheat/sugarcane/maize/turmeric/sorghum/fruits) substantially increased carbon sequestration that ultimately helps in combating climate change and sustain livelihood in Northern India.