Work

Optimizing carbon bio-sequestration and biomass yield of setaria grass for net-zero goals in karst ecosystems

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Addressing the global climate crisis necessitates innovative carbon sequestration strategies, particularly in marginal ecosystems such as karst regions characterized by low fertility and limited organic carbon content. This study evaluates the potential of Setaria splendida grass to enhance carbon bio-sequestration under varying doses of organic liquid fertilizer. Above- and below-ground biomass measurements were used to quantify total carbon storage. Fertilizer application significantly increased dry below-ground biomass (BGB), which accounted for most carbon stored, highlighting the critical role of root systems in carbon sequestration and soil improvement through root exudates. Additionally, increased above-ground biomass (AGB) contributes to carbon storage and supports local livestock by enhancing forage availability. Total carbon storage ranged from 7.34 to 37.26 tons/ha, depending on fertilizer dosage. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of organic liquid fertilizer in optimizing carbon storage and biomass productivity, providing a scalable approach for restoring degraded ecosystems. This approach could be scaled to similar marginal ecosystems globally, offering dual benefits for carbon sequestration and sustainable agriculture.

Source: BIS Energy and Engineering

DOI: 10.31603/biseeng.377

Authors: M Dolly Yusufa Nasution, S Sarto, Himawan Tri Bayu Murti Petrus, Agus Prasetya

Institution: Universitas Gadjah Mada

Language: English

Topic: Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Dynamics

Subfield: Soil Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Life on land, Zero hunger, Responsible consumption and production, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: Nanyang Technological University, Lembaga Pengelola Dana Pendidikan, Kementerian Pendidikan, Kebudayaan, Riset, dan Teknologi