Presentation Information
[MIS02-12]The Carbon Potential Database of the Russian Arctic Biomes: A Basis for Natural Climate Solutions
*Vladimir Slobodyan1,2, Sergei Dudov1,3, Aleksandra Priadilina1,2 (1.JSC Institute of Environmental Survey, Planning and Assessment, 2.Faculty of Geography, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 3.Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University)
Keywords:
Arctic,Climate change,Natural climate solutions,Carbon management
The rapid development of the Russian Arctic zone, accompanied by growing anthropogenic pressure and intensifying climate change, presents a multifaceted challenge. On the one hand, thawing permafrost and the increasing frequency of wildfires lead to massive carbon emissions, which both intensify the greenhouse effect and pose direct economic risks to infrastructure. On the other hand, Arctic ecosystems – particularly wetlands and peatlands, as well as yedoma landscapes – possess significant potential for carbon sequestration and long-term storage. Currently, examples of local-scale research on carbon dynamics in the northern territories of the Russian Federation exist. However, solutions that provide a comprehensive assessment of the carbon potential for the entire biome of the Russian Arctic zone are lacking. This significantly hinders the development of nature-based climate solutions adapted to the conditions of the Far North. The research team has developed a database that assesses the carbon sequestration potential of biomes within the Russian Arctic zone. It integrates key parameters such as permafrost characteristics, quantitative assessments of forest cover state and dynamics, forest carbon uptake and wildfire-induced greenhouse gas emissions, soil erosion extent, peatland properties, biodiversity metrics, and the human footprint in the study region. This integrated database provides an informational foundation for identifying priority areas for protection, restoration, and optimized carbon management. It is designed to support progress toward Russia’s climate objectives and to promote the sustainable development of the Arctic region.