Science Behind the Work

Research & Publications

Every claim we make is grounded in peer-reviewed science. Below are the key studies, government datasets, and methodological papers that inform our carbon sequestration estimates, air quality models, and SLA benchmarks.

Scientific Accuracy Note

For a Version 5 calculator, calculations are based primarily on Nowak et al. 2013 (US Forest Service), Indian Urban Forestry Review (Springer), CEA India Grid Emission Factors, and species-specific biomass equations from forestry literature.

DBH (Diameter at Breast Height)-based carbon estimation formulas are used rather than fixed scores — allowing estimates of carbon storage using actual tree size, age, and species, making results much closer to professional carbon-accounting tools.

Tree Carbon Sequestration & Urban Forestry

Carbon storage and sequestration by urban trees in the USA

One of the most cited urban tree carbon studies. Basis for many commonly quoted urban tree sequestration estimates.

Carbon storage and sequestration by urban trees in the USA

US Forest ServiceView source

Original Forest Service publication page.

Carbon storage and sequestration by trees in urban and community areas of the United States

Nowak et al.2013

Updated large-scale assessment of urban tree carbon storage and sequestration.

Role and value of urban forests in carbon sequestration: review and assessment in Indian context

One of the most relevant review papers for India. Discusses sequestration methodologies, urban forestry, and Indian applicability.

Carbon Storage by Urban Forests

National Park ServiceView source

Good explanation of sequestration vs carbon storage.

Urban Trees Store Carbon, Enhance the Environment, Provide Economic Benefits

Summarizes major US Forest Service findings.

Forest Carbon Status and Trends

US Forest ServiceView source

Overview of forest carbon sinks and sequestration.

Carbon Quantification Methodologies

Quantification of Carbon Sequestration in Urban Forests

2021

Uses species identification, biomass estimation, and remote sensing for carbon calculations.

Methodology for Calculating CO₂ Absorption by Tree Planting for Greening Projects

2024

Modern methodology paper for estimating tree-based carbon fixation and carbon credits.

Potential Global Sequestration of Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide by Semi-Arid Forestation

Detailed sequestration modeling study.

India Electricity Emission Factors

CO₂ Baseline Database for the Indian Power Sector

Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Government of IndiaView source

Official emission factors used in carbon accounting projects. Recommended source for annual updates. For a scientifically accurate calculator, appliance emissions should be calculated using: CO₂ = Electricity Usage (kWh) × Grid Emission Factor.

Kerala / Tropical Urban Tree Context

Subhash Park's trees save Kochi lakhs a year, finds Cusat study

Local Kerala example demonstrating measurable ecosystem services from urban trees.

Put the Science to Work

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