IJFANS International Journal of Food and Nutritional Sciences

ISSN PRINT 2319 1775 Online 2320-7876

“ENHANCING BHOPAL’S URBAN PARKS: SELECTING OPTIMAL TREE SPECIES TO MITIGATE ATMOSPHERIC CO2 AND IMPROVE AIR QUALITY”

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Ragni Bhargava, G.S. Chouhans, Shashank Bhargava, Dr.Pawan Kumar Jain

Abstract

This study investigates the carbon sequestration potential of trees within specific urban parks in Bhopal, aiming to identify species with high biomass and efficient carbon fixation suitable for urban environments. Additionally, it recognizes the significance of Bhopal's parks as vital green spaces, offering recreational opportunities and respite from urban life. The aesthetic appeal of these parks is attributed to a combination of exotic and native flora. Among the tree species surveyed, Ficusbenghalensis demonstrates the highest carbon sequestration potential 42320.83 kg/tree, followed by Vacchelianilotica about 34742.7 kg per tree.. The study identifies additional species with notable carbon sequestration capacities, including Salix babylonica, Eucalyptus globulus, Tectonagrandis, Delonixregia, Dalbergiasissoo, Ficusreligiosa, Shorearobusta, and Azadirachtaindica. Conversely, Bambusa species and Dypsislutescens exhibit lower carbon sequestration capabilities. Fruit-bearing trees such as Syzygiumcumini, Mangiferaindica, Phyllanthusemblica, and Ziziphus jujube are recommended for widespread planting due to their ability to store significant amounts of CO2. The study underscores the importance of accurately measuring tree attributes, including height and diameter at breast height (DBH), for species identification and carbon sequestration estimation. It emphasizes the need for thoughtful selection of urban trees beyond mere maintenance considerations, advocating for a diverse tree mix to enhance biodiversity and maximize environmental benefits.

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