Evaluation of biomass, carbon storage capability and agroforestry interest of stone pine (Pinus pinea L.): review

Abstract

Background: Stone pine (Pinus pinea L.) is one of the characteristic species of the Mediterranean flora. This species has been used since ancient times because of its economic importance. This study was carried out because stone pine forests in the Mediterranean area, as carbon sinks, are one of the mitigation strategies considered to face climate change. Also, stone pine forests are of great
socio-economic importance on an international scale due to the high demand for pine nuts and the important role of this emblematic species in agroforestry. The objectives of this study are, firstly, the evaluation of biomass and carbon storage capability and, secondly, the study of agroforestry interest of Pinus pinea L. and management practices to increase carbon stocks.
Results: A review of research and knowledge was carried out on the subject based on a selection of publications that have been made in the Mediterranean area. The main conclusions are that stone pine forests have a very high biomass stock and a high storage potential in the future. However, these forests could be a potential carbon reservoir in the coming years and thus on climate change
mitigation. In addition, the practice of agroforestry in the stone pine ecosystem can create jobs and many sources of income for the local population and improve their living standards.
Conclusion: Finally, this review of research results can serve as an initial basis for refining management practices to improve the establishment of pine trees and tools to help forest managers in quantifying biomass, thereby contributing to the accurate estimation of carbon sequestration and stocks in stone pine stands and agroforestry practices.