Quantification of Carbon Stocks in Pure Forests of Pinus Roxburghii Sarg. And Quercus Leucotrichophora A. Camus In Two Community Forests of Kumaun Central Himalaya

A major worldwide issue, climate change affects both natural ecosystems and socioeconomic systems. Because they sequester carbon, forests are essential for reducing the effects of climate change. This study evaluates the overall carbon stock in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, India which is home to two major forest types: Chir Pine and Banj Oak. According to the study, the carbon store of non-degraded areas is higher than that of degraded forests. The range of the average carbon stock levels was 219.86–490.33 Mg ha-1. The findings also indicate that, in comparison to degraded locations, the carbon stock in forest biomass is substantially higher in non-degraded sites. The study emphasizes how crucial it is to preserve forests and use sustainable management techniques in order to improve carbon sequestration and slow down climate change. The study's conclusions aid in the creation of practical plans for lowering atmospheric carbon levels and encouraging sustainable forest management techniques. Findings are in line with other research that demonstrated the importance of forests as carbon sinks. Particularly with regard to reducing the consequences of climate change, the current findings have important implications for conservation and forest management plans. Furthermore, the present study provides valuable insights into the carbon sequestration capability of Indian Himalayan forests and highlights the need for sustainable forest management practices to mitigate climate change. Keywords: Degraded and non-degraded sites, Van panchayat, Carbon stock, Carbon trading, Sequestration.