Accounting for albedo changes in carbon farming schemes.

Abstract

Biogeophysical effects like changes in surface albedo are inherent to land-based climate mitigation projects, including carbon farming. Yet, these effects are typically overlooked in carbon farming schemes. Here we highlight the albedo-induced climate impacts of key carbon farming practices, which have been documented to be at the same order of magnitude as their greenhouse gas mitigation benefits. We discuss existing methods and data, as well as future opportunities and research needs to adequately quantify albedo-induced climate impacts and consider them in carbon farming schemes. Given that albedo effects can lead to cooler or warmer temperatures, carbon farming schemes should consider such biogeophysical co-benefits and trade-offs as part of their sustainability objectives related to climate change mitigation and adaptation.