Abstract
Rising global atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO) concentrations has been a major driver of global climate change. In response, several parties to the Paris Agreement have pledged to achieve carbon neutrality where CO emissions are balanced by various CO removal activities. Sequestration of atmospheric CO by trees and locking it in different pools (live biomass, detritus, wood products and soil) is widely seen as an easy, cost-effective strategy that would lead to carbon neutrality. Together with attractive carbon incentives, this strategy has led to the mushrooming of several tree plantation projects all over the world. The carbon sequestration potential of a plantation depends upon several factors like species planted, site history, climate, and management practices. While well-planned tree plantations would enable the harvesting of environmental and socioeconomic benefits, ill-conceived tree planting initiatives may turn into an environmental disaster. Prior risk assessments and adoption of an integrated approach in tree plantations would help in reducing the uncertainties and achieving the desired targets. Diversified climate action plans which also include tree plantation as an integral component are necessary to achieve carbon neutrality and climate change mitigation goals.
