Student Research Reports

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Human-caused disturbances to the equilibrium of carbon dioxide in Earth's systems are the primary cause of the ongoing increase in global temperatures and the growing occurrence of climate extremes. By combining aboveground and belowground carbon storage, net primary production (NPP), and individual carbon footprint within the study area, this study seeks to evaluate carbon dynamics holistically. By measuring 1) the circumference at breast height (CBH) of tree trunks, 2) the height of shrubs or saplings as inputs for allometric equations to determine biomass, and 3) the mass of herbaceous components, aboveground carbon storage was assessed using the Non-Standard Site Carbon Cycle Protocol. In order to incorporate carbon sequestration rates across time, net primary productivity (NPP) was evaluated by periodic vegetation growth assessments, while belowground carbon storage was calculated using soil bulk density and organic carbon content, along with soil characterization, star-pattern soil moisture and depth profile soil moisture protocols. The international standard ISO 14064-1:2006 for greenhouse gas quantification and reporting was used to gather and evaluate personal carbon footprint data. The overall carbon storage, including projected belowground storage, ranged from 25,115 to 37,920 kg. Additionally, NPP in carbon storage increased by 202 g C/m² compared to a previous measurement, corresponding to the rise in vegetation biomass. During this period, personal carbon footprint rose to 41,557 kilograms of CO2e, exceeding total carbon storage. These findings highlight the need for integrated personal and ecological strategies to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change.