Spatial-Temporal Change of Agricultural Biomass and Carbon Capture Capability in the Mid-South of Hebei Province

Abstract

As an essential part of terrestrial ecosystems, farmland plays a critical role in the carbon cycle. The spatial and temporal characterization of farmland biomass and carbon sequestration capacity is important to understand the carbon cycle of a farmland system. The study area is located in mid-south Hebei Province (MSHP), which is a food production region in North China. Based on land-use data (1980, 1990, 2000 and 2008) and food production data (1984–2008), agricultural biological productivity and carbon capture capacity were estimated. In addition, the spatial-temporal characteristics and related influencing factors were analyzed. Regionwide, aboveground biomass increased from 600 g C·m⁻²·a⁻¹ (1985) to 1200 g C·m⁻²·a⁻¹ (2008) with an increase-decrease-increase pattern during the same period. Spatially, it increased in the piedmont plains and declined in the western mountains and piedmont plains. The carbon capture capacity of cropland in the piedmont area increased from 700 g C·m⁻²·a⁻¹ to 1000 g C·m⁻²·a⁻¹, and it declined in the low plain area. Mountainous and coastal areas had the lowest capability of agricultural carbon capture. Although farmland is a dynamic carbon pool overall, its carbon sequestration capacity is likely to be enhanced with proper farming practices.