Measurement of Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide Levels at Dokriani Bamak, Garhwal Himalaya, India

Abstract

Increase in surface temperature at global scale has already affected a diverse set of physical and biological systems in many parts of the world and if it increases at this rapid rate then the condition would be worst one could have ever thought off. Garhwal Himalaya , major part of the great Himalayan mountainous system is also much sensitive and vulnerable to the local, regional and global changing climate. Due to large altitudinal gradient, varied climatic conditions and diverse set of floral and faunal composition, the impact of climate change seems to be much perceptible in coming future. Natural ecosystems at high elevations are much more sensitive to the climatic variations or global warming then the managed systems. This paper highlights measurement of atmospheric Carbon dioxide at Dokriani Bamak, Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand . Concentration of CO2 averaged 383.5 ± 2.12 ppm in 2005. Daily variations of CO2 values showed minimum during the daytime (376.5 ppm) and peaked in the evening (393.8 ppm). At monthly intervals, the CO2 values varied from 381.9 ± 3.70 (May) to 385.52 ± 7.05 ppm (August). Average temperature recorded during the year was 4.7 °C and during the growing season (May–October 2005) was 6.8 °C. Although phenology is significant in controlling CO2 levels, short-term changes cannot be explained without the anthropogenic perturbations. The CO2 concentration in Dokriani Bamak (383.5 ppm) was higher and comparable with those of other major monitoring locations around the world.