Vegetation and forest carbon dynamics in relation to anthropogenic impacts and climate variability at selected sites in India

Abstract

Human activities, particularly monoculture plantations and infrastructure development, significantly alter natural landscapes. Monitoring these activities in global biodiversity hotspots is crucial. This study focuses on spatiotemporal changes in vegetation and carbon dynamics in two distinct regions: Kottayam district in Kerala, and the Pualreng Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS) in Mizoram. The primary objective of the first study was to monitor the expansion of rubber plantations in Kottayam, Kerala, which is the state’s highest rubber-producing district. Mapping and estimating carbon stocks are essential to understand the environmental impacts resulting from rubber plantation growth. Remote sensing technologies, including Landsat 7 and LISS-IV satellite images and topographical maps, were used to identify spatiotemporal dynamics and assess carbon stock. Forest cover dynamics were evaluated using the Forest Survey of India (FSI) and multi-temporal data, revealing that rubber plantations now cover 56.93% of the district’s total geographical area. Additionally, 4.48% of the area consists of natural forests, including teak monoculture (2.01%). Estimating aboveground biomass (AGB) and carbon stock is critical for climate change considerations. The study estimated a total carbon storage of 8.3 teragrams for the entire study area in 2018. The second study focused on anthropogenic impacts, specifically the Tuirial hydroelectric project within Pualreng Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS), Mizoram. Using remote sensing techniques and satellite imagery from Landsat and Sentinel-2A, the study analysed tree loss over the past two decades. The results revealed a significant reduction in forest cover due to infrastructure development, leading to habitat fragmentation and biodiversity loss. Recommendations include environmental assessments and conservation initiatives to mitigate the impacts caused by the Tuirial hydroelectric project on PWS. Age-based approach for enhanced C-stock for rubber plantations. Understanding these dynamics and implementing conservation measures are critical for maintaining ecosystem health and resilience in these regions