Estimation and change in carbon stock of Robinia pseudoacacia in Seoul, Korea

This study aimed to measure the changes of the carbon stock of Robinia pseudoacacia stands in Seoul, Korea from 2000 to 2010. The area of Robinia pseudoacacia stands in the city occupied 33.7 km² (5.5%) of the total area of Seoul (605 km²) as of 2010. Its carbon stock was calculated through using an allometric equation recommended by Korea Forest Research Institute. The result showed that the carbon stock of Robinia pseudoacacia in Seoul decreased for the last 10 years: from 231,753 tC in 2000, 185,204 tC in 2005 and 185,111 tC in 2010. Robinia pseudoacacia are a plant species that absorbs carbon (in an era of climate change) and also plays a role of a nectar-source plant. Since the carbon stock has been reduced in Seoul, it is required to consider the preservation and management of Robinia pseudoacacia. One of the ways to increase carbon stock is to preserve and manage trees. It is necessary to have a plan to maintain the current size of forests and enhance carbon stock by taking advantage of the favorable characteristics of Robinia pseudoacacia.