Carbon transfer dynamics in Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis (Carrière) J.Houz.) sliced veneer production: Insights for sustainable bamboo industry practices

Bamboo forests, known for their rapid growth and sustainability, have become crucial carbon sinks in natural ecosystems while providing sustainable and durable products, significantly mitigating climate change. However, research is rarely conducted on the carbon storage dynamics of bamboo products during processing. We investigated carbon transfer dynamics during the production of Moso bamboo sliced veneer, and developed a carbon transfer model for this representative product. We also provide a reference for developing carbon project methodologies, carbon footprint assessments of bamboo products, and strategies for improving low-carbon production in the bamboo industry. A total of 352 Moso bamboo poles (classified by three length groups and five thickness classes) were monitored during production and processing into bamboo planks. The carbon transfer rates of bamboo boards with varying specifications and diameters at breast height (DBHs) were analyzed, and a carbon storage model for sliced veneer was established. There was a significant difference in the carbon transfer rates among the three lengths of bamboo plank boards (p<0.01). The 2000 mm bamboo board exhibited the highest carbon transfer rate, reaching 39.14%. The relationship between carbon transfer rate and DBH was represented by the function y = 1.1876x + 25.242 (R² = 0.9779), suggesting that the carbon transfer rate of bamboo increased with increasing DBH. The carbon transfer rate of the 2500 mm bamboo board ranged from 15.63% to 38.57%; its linear fitting equation was y = 2.6645x - 4.0488 (R²=0.9606). A carbon storage model for bamboo veneers with different DBHs was then developed: y=0.003× 2.6299 (R²=0.7906). This model provides the foundation for accurately estimating the carbon storage of bamboo products. Our findings also demonstrate that the carbon storage of bamboo exhibits exponential growth with increasing DBH. Thus, Moso bamboo with a DBH > 9 cm is the preferred raw material for optimal production of sliced bamboo veneer. • Carbon transfer during the processing of Moso bamboo sliced veneer increases with diameter at breast height (DBH), indicating a strong positive correlation. • A carbon storage model reveals exponential growth in carbon storage as bamboo diameters increase, enhancing accuracy in carbon estimation. • Findings underscore the contribution of bamboo to green building and climate change mitigation, highlighting its value as a sustainable resource.