Carbon Sequestration Potential in Rubber Plantations: A Complementary Approach to Tropical Forest Conservation Strategies, a Review

The adverse effects of climate change, which are associated with the rise in greenhouse gases, impact all nations worldwide. In this context, tropical forests play a critical role in carbon sequestration. However, the significant anthropogenic pressure on these forests contributes to accelerated deforestation and a decrease in their capacity to regulate the climate. This study uses a comprehensive review of 176 published scientific articles and reports to assess the carbon sequestration capacity of rubber plantations, comparing their effectiveness with that of natural tropical forests. The findings are largely consistent and indicate that agricultural systems, such as rubber plantations, which were not traditionally associated with carbon sequestration, play a significant role in this area. Rubber plantations present a complementary alternative to the rapid deforestation of tropical forests, with the capacity to sequester substantial amounts of carbon. The range of carbon storage potential for rubber plantations, spanning from 30 to over 100 tons per hectare, rivals that of natural tropical forests, which can store over 300 tons per hectare. Furthermore, rubber plantations are notable for their indirect carbon sequestration potential. By providing a sustainable source of latex and wood, and thus income, they can reduce the pressure on natural tropical forests. However, challenges remain, particularly concerning sustainable management and the integration of rubber plantations into sustainable tropical forest management strategies. This analysis focuses on the opportunities and challenges of rubber plantations as an offset solution for carbon sequestration. It highlights the prospects for effectively integrating these plantations into sustainable tropical forest management policies.