Open Access

Tristan Burrow

• This study investigates the Carbon sequestration potential of two contrasting forest management regimes, Scottish coniferous plantations and Bavarian mixed species forests using a combination of remote sensing, terrestrial inventory data, and lifecycle Carbon accounting models. Aboveground biomass was estimated using LiDAR based Canopy Height Models (CHMs), allometric equations, and species-specific parameters such as wood density and Carbon ratios. In addition, this study integrates substitution effects, quantifying the Carbon savings achieved when harvested wood products (HWPs) replace emission intensive construction materials. The analysis revealed near identical total Carbon stocks between the two regions (Scotland 695tC, Bavaria 697tC), yet significantly different in sequestration dynamics due to forest structure, species diversity, and rotation cycles. Bavarian forests, predominantly occupied by Fagus sylvatica and Picea abies, were able to store more Carbon per unit volume than the monoculture plantations in Scotland. A Mann-Whitney U test confirmed the significant differences, while a Two-Way ANOVA indicated that material type, rather than region, most significantly influenced Net Carbon savings (NCs) from HWPs. This study concludes that forest policy must move beyond simplistic afforestation targets, and instead earnestly instigate sustainable climate mitigation strategies into forest policy, by increasing diversity to higher proportions of hardwoods and general species diversity, structural complexity, and extended rotation periods. Additionally, consideration should be given to include HWPs in Carbon credit schemes, incentivising long-term mitigation. These findings support a transition towards diversified, climate resilient forest systems as both Carbon sinks and sustainable material assets.