Assessing the contribution of arboriculture operations to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions: A case study of a UK tree surgery company (original) (raw)

Abstract

The arboriculture industry relies heavily on fossil fuel-powered equipment to maintain trees in urban areas; removing carbon sinks (trees) and emitting carbon dioxide (CO2) during management practices. It has been suggested that the arboriculture industry may make a disproportionately large contribution to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The aim of this study was to identify the contribution of arboriculture to GHG emissions and provide recommendations for reduction. A case study of a tree surgery company (Down to Earth Trees Ltd) was used to assess indicative industry emissions. Direct emissions from sources owned or controlled by the company were 101.2 t of CO2e per year, with 5.2 t of CO2e per year of indirect emissions from energy use and 98.9 t of CO2e per year of indirect emissions from sources owned or controlled by other organisations. Results suggested that the arboriculture industry releases seven times more CO2e emissions per year than other similar-sized industries in the service sector. This was mainly attributed to the use of machinery and heavy-duty vehicles and removal of carbon storing biomass. Changing current practices could reduce GHG emissions from arboriculture by between 12% and 18%. Furthermore, by providing a renewable feedstock for generation of electricity, it is suggested that the arboriculture industry may achieve carbon positive status.

Tom Luck hasn't uploaded this paper.

Let Tom know you want this paper to be uploaded.

Ask for this paper to be uploaded.