LONG-TERM ESTIMATE OF NET CO₂ EMISSION REDUCTIONS BY FOREST RESOURCE USE FOR ENERGY CONSIDERING CHANGE OF CARBON STORAGE

Abstract

Net CO₂ emissions reduction by utilization of forest trees as energy source was estimated in Japan upto 2050. The estimate involves not only CO₂ emissions reduction through replacement of the fossil fuel consumption, but also change of carbon storage of both in forests and wood in the buildings. The carbon storage decreased by planting and harvesting wood for fuel production in shorter cycle than the conventional forest management This study showed the importance of considering the impact on net CO₂ emissions reduction by such change of carbon storage. When conventional trees are planted and clearcut for bio-ethanol use as opposed to preserving forests, net CO₂ emissions increased over the long-term. In contrast, when fast-growing trees are planted and clearcut, net CO₂ emissions decreased after 2025.