Harnessing mulberry trees for carbon sequestration: A review of strategies to enhance air quality

Abstract

Mulberry trees (genus Morus) hold great promise for reducing atmospheric CO2 levels and improving air quality due to their remarkable ability to sequester carbon. This review article examines various strategies used to maximize the carbon sequestration potential of mulberry trees, thereby contributing to enhanced air quality. The main factors influencing mulberry tree-mediated carbon sequestration are discussed, such as photosynthetic efficiency, biomass accumulation, and pollutant absorption capacities. Furthermore, the review investigates the role of mulberry trees in phytoremediation efforts, focusing on contaminated soil sites near industrial zones. Additionally, cultivation practices such as mulching, irrigation methods, and tillage techniques are evaluated for their effectiveness in optimizing carbon sequestration in mulberry plantations. The review emphasizes the importance of temperate climate conditions, such as those found in areas like Kashmir, for promoting long-term carbon storage in mulberry trees. The findings of this review provide valuable guidance for policymakers, environmentalists, and agricultural practitioners looking to use mulberry trees as powerful allies in the global fight against climate change and air pollution.