Managing Global Carbon Stocks: An Integrated Approach for Climate Mitigation and Sustainable Development
Abstract
In the face of escalating climate change, the management of global carbon stocks stands out as among one of the critical mitigation strategies. In this review article, we explore the concept of carbon stocks by considering three important global case studies: the Amazon Fund (Brazil) for conservation, the Himachal Pradesh Reforestation Project (India) for sequestration, and the Loess Plateau Rehabilitation (China) for landscape restoration. We will analyse the implementation strategies, socio economic co-benefits, and the challenges that these projects have faced. Furthermore, we will also explore how technological carbon removals play a complementary role in carbon removal. Lastly, we will conclude with an understanding that effective carbon stock projects are those that integrate climate goals while strengthening community livelihoods, robust monitoring, review and evaluation, and stable political and financial support, offering a holistic pathway toward achieving global climate targets. Building on reviewer feedback, this revised review also critically examines the political, market, and ecological trade-offs each project encountered, incorporates updated quantitative outcomes, and proposes indicators for assessing the long-term sustainability of carbon stock interventions.