Wetland carbon models: Applications for wetland carbon commercialization
Sarah K. Mack, Robert R. Lane, Jia Deng, James T. Morris, Julian J. Bauer
Abstract
Processed-based biogeochemical mathematical models are powerful tools that are increasingly being used to estimate potential carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas (GHG) impacts of management at a landscape level. These models can simulate some or all of the processes responsible for carbon sequestration and GHG emissions, which can relieve some of the burdensome in-situ monitoring requirements that make many blue carbon projects cost-prohibitive. Here we selectively review five publicly available and widely used biogeochemical models (MEM, PEPRMT, DNDC, DayCent and FVS) including their current applications and limitations towards blue carbon project development. Of the five models, only the DNDC model can be applied to fully account for net sequestration as applicable to blue carbon offset methodologies. With further development, the DayCent and the combined MEM/PEPRMT models may prove to be applicable. Successful application of such models will address one of the biggest barriers to landscape-scale blue carbon project development.