Wetland Carbon Dynamics in Illinois: Implications for Landscape Architectural Practice

Wetlands play a crucial role in carbon sequestration. The integration of wetland carbon dynamics into landscape architecture, however, has been challenging, mainly due to gaps between scientific knowledge and landscape practice norms. While the carbon performance of different wetland types is well established in the ecological sciences literature, our study pioneers the translation of this scientific understanding into actionable landscape design guidance. We achieve this through a comprehensive, spatially explicit analysis of wetland carbon dynamics using 2024 National Wetlands Inventory data and other spatial datasets. We analyze carbon flux rates across 13 distinct wetland types in Illinois to help quantify useful information related to designing for carbon outcomes. Our analysis reveals that in Illinois, bottomland forests function as primary carbon sinks (709,462 MtC/year), while perennial deepwater rivers act as significant carbon emitters (−2,573,586 MtC/year). We also identify a notable north–south gradient in sequestration capacity, that helps demonstrate how regional factors influence wetland and other stormwater management design strategies. The work provides landscape architects with evidence-based parameters for evaluating carbon sequestration potential in wetland design decisions, while also acknowledging the need to balance carbon goals with other ecosystem services. This research advances the profession’s capacity to move beyond generic sustainable design principles toward quantifiable climate-responsive solutions, helping landscape architects make informed decisions about wetland type selection and placement in the context of climate change mitigation.