Assessing Above-Ground Biomass for Carbon Credit Generation in Sawago Forest Reserve, Mbeya – Tanzania

This study aimed to assess Above-Ground Biomass (AGB) in Sawago Forest Reserve to facilitate carbon credit generation. The specific objectives were quantifying AGB, determining Above-Ground Carbon (AGC) storage, and estimating potential carbon credits. A systematic sampling approach was employed involving measurements of tree Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) in 46 sample plots. Allometric model was applied to estimate the AGB from DBH measurements. QGIS with the aid of the Avenza was used to layout plots. Plots were navigated and located using GPS receiver in the field. Microsoft Excel was used to compute AGB, AGC and carbon credits, and visualization. The results revealed an average density of 349.86 stems per hectare indicating a well-structured forest ecosystem. The AGB was 148,017.6 kg per ha translating a significant carbon storage which is crucial for climate change mitigation. The AGC was 69.568 tons per ha which was contributed by trees with greater DBH classes. Carbon credits was 255.08 CO2e per ha on average which was contributed to a large extend by larger valuable trees with DBH greater than 55 cm. This amount of carbon credits per ha demonstrating the forest economic potential through carbon trading schemes. Sawago Forest Reserve holds substantial AGB, AGC storage and potential carbon credits making this forest reserve a viable candidate for carbon credit initiatives. The findings support the implementation of sustainable forest management practices and community-based conservation programs to enhance both ecological and economic benefits.