The role of plantation forestry in Ireland in the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions.

Abstract

Forests are a major component of the global carbon cycle and can make a significant contribution to the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions. This can be achieved through a range of means including carbon sequestration and the use of forest biomass for bioenergy. Ireland’s plantation forests are a net sink for carbon and contribute significantly to national greenhouse gas reduction targets under the Kyoto Protocol. Maintenance of this carbon sink requires an annual afforestation rate of 15,000 ha for the next two decades. Forestry is likely to play an increasing role in bioenergy through the delivery of biomass for energy production.