Lucknow: Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) is creating a digital database of trees in its parks to track how much carbon dioxide they absorb from the atmosphere and store.“LDA will use the system to monitor tree survival and track changes over time. The data will also help identify locations for future plantations and green spaces. The data could help identify areas with higher carbon emissions and assess the need for additional green cover,” said LDA vice-chairperson Prathamesh Kumar.LDA is developing a mobile application– Carbon Sequestration Assessment Tool– for the project. The database will record tree species, trunk diameter, age and GPS location, Kumar said and added that the app will first be tested through a pilot project.Around 20 garden officers and employees will use the app to collect data.Each tree will be assigned a unique digital ID linked to its GPS location. Field staff will enter details such as species and trunk diameter into the app.The app will calculate tree biomass and carbon data using scientific formulas. The database will provide a digital record of the number of trees, their species and estimated carbon contribution across LDA parks.LDA said a verified database of carbon storage and sequestration could support future exploration of carbon-credit opportunities. Any such proposal would require verification and certification under applicable standards.The pilot project will assess data-collection processes, accuracy and application performance before a wider rollout.
