Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions from Veneer Production from Falcata (Falcataria moluccana (Miq.) Barneby & J. W. Grimes) in the Caraga Region, Philippines

The different processes involved in producing wood products are both sources and sinks of carbon, with CO2e emitted from each operation. Greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory allows the measurement of net GHG emissions produced along each step of the process. This study was done to determine the GHG emissions resulting from falcata veneer production, specifically the processes from harvesting to veneer processing (drying). Falcata is a fast-growing commercial timber of high significance in the Caraga region in the Philippines. Updated emission factors were used to calculate the CO2 e units. Major log transport contributed 49% of total emissions, resulting mainly from the use of trucks that is more than ten years old. The harvesting operation accounted for 21% of emissions while minor log transport involving carabaos, habal-habal (modified motorcycle) and small trucks (in various combinations) contributed to 18%. Veneer processing accounted for 12% of emissions because respondents used mostly air drying, hence, consumed less energy. Locating veneer mills close to existing plantations may reduce the GHG emissions significantly. Thus, the study sought to calculate the respective GHG emissions from harvesting, transport and veneer processing activities and determine the net GHG fluxes to and from the activities. These were accomplished through analysis of primary data gathered through direct observation and key informant interviews (KII). To describe the wood industry in the country in the context of climate mitigation, carbon stocks and emission rate from the wood production process using other tree species need to be quantified.