Bamboo forests in Anji, China: An emerging nature-based solution to tackle climate change
Chunyu Pan, Guangyu Wang, Lin Xu, Chong Li, Anil Shrestha, Mengjia Ying, Wenming Lu, John L. Innes, Robert Kozak, Guomo Zhou
Abstract
Bamboo forests present a novel nature-based strategy to remove atmospheric carbon dioxide thanks to their extraordinary carbon sequestration capacity. In particular, Moso bamboo ( Phyllostachys edulis ) sequesters more than 40 tonnes of carbon dioxide per hectare annually. However, these forests have encountered challenges in some areas due to decentralized management and industry downturns. An innovative green financing model incorporating village cooperatives could address the critical problems facing the management of bamboo forests while contributing to the mitigation of the climate crisis. Meanwhile, the model will significantly benefit the less-developed communities in many parts of the world by increasing farmers’ incomes, enhancing livelihood, and boosting local economies. • Bamboo forests face development bottlenecks needing innovative solutions. • Green financing revitalizes bamboo forests, aiding climate mitigation. • Anji’s model addresses major challenges with professional bamboo management. • Global bamboo CDR adoption benefits climate and boosts local economies.