Measurements and economics of carbon sequestration in temperate tree-based intercropping systems

Abstract

The paper aims to quantify and monetise carbon sequestration potential of temperate Tree-Based Intercropping (TBI) systems in Canada. The net carbon sequestration potential is estimated to be 2.26 Mg C ha−1y−1 that represents an immobilisation of 8.3 ton CO2 ha−1y−1. In economic terms this amount of sequestered carbon represents $24,383 per hectare of societal benefits over a rotation period of 40 years. This means 137 million dollars per year of climate regulation services could be achieved through establishment of TBI systems on 1.93 million hectares of land areas in the province of Quebec in Canada. Government incentives, however, are needed to interest farmers in adopting practices that reduce farmers' private profits yet benefit society as a whole.