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The Changes in China's Forests: An Analysis Using the Forest Identity

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  • Lei Shi
  • Shuqing Zhao
  • Zhiyao Tang
  • Jingyun Fang

Abstract

Changes in forest carbon stocks are a determinant of the regional carbon budget. In the past several decades, China has experienced a pronounced increase in forest area and density. However, few comprehensive analyses have been conducted. In this study, we employed the Forest Identity concept to evaluate the changing status of China's forests over the past three decades, using national forest inventory data of five periods (1977–1981, 1984–1988, 1989–1993, 1994–1998, and 1999–2003). The results showed that forest area and growing stock density increased by 0.51% and 0.44% annually over the past three decades, while the conversion ratio of forest biomass to growing stock declined by 0.10% annually. These developments resulted in a net annual increase of 0.85% in forest carbon sequestration, which is equivalent to a net biomass carbon uptake of 43.8 Tg per year (1 Tg = 1012 g). This increase can be attributed to the national reforestation/afforestation programs, environmentally enhanced forest growth and economic development as indicated by the average gross domestic product.

Suggested Citation

  • Lei Shi & Shuqing Zhao & Zhiyao Tang & Jingyun Fang, 2011. "The Changes in China's Forests: An Analysis Using the Forest Identity," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 6(6), pages 1-7, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0020778
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0020778
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    4. Karen Ehrhardt‐Martinez & Edward M. Crenshaw & J. Craig Jenkins, 2002. "Deforestation and the Environmental Kuznets Curve: A Cross‐National Investigation of Intervening Mechanisms," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 83(1), pages 226-243, March.
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