4. DISCUSSION
The soil OC was calculated for each individual layer using the following
equations:
Soil OC stock = OC × BD × D
with OC in %, the BD in g cm-3, and sample depth (D) in cm. Soil OC
stocks expressed in t C ha-1, then soil OC stock converted into g C m-2.
The calculated carbon stocks have been integrated into a Geographic
Information System (GIS) for mapping purposes. The resulting map
represents the spatial distribution of carbon stocks across the study
area, providing valuable insights into the variation and concentration
of organic carbon in the soils of the Galite Island This carbon stock
map serves as a useful tool for visualizing and analysing the potential
areas of carbon sequestration, aiding in the implementation of targeted
conservation and land management strategies to enhance carbon storage
and mitigate climate change impacts.
Carbon stocks vary from 11 to 49 t/ha. Values close to 11 are found in
areas affected by fires, while other parts of Galite show carbon stocks
exceeding the forest soil norm, possibly due to the presence of a
protected marine and coastal area. At a global scale, soils and forests
store 3 to 4 times more carbon than the atmosphere, whether in living or
dead biomass. Even relatively small positive or negative variations in
these stocks can influence greenhouse gas emissions. (Figure 7)