The Dynamics of Negative Carbon Emissions: The Case of Forestry

This paper examines the dynamic interactions between forest biomass, atmospheric carbon, and land use change. These three factors are modeled using a dynamic system model as state equations while the policymaker decides the optimal timber harvesting and deforestation quantities. An extension of the model with a tax on forest products and a revenue recycling mechanism is included as well. As forests are suggested as potential climate change mitigation tools to reach net negative emissions due to their function as carbon sinks, examinations into this dynamic relationship are of increasing importance. This investigative line can shed light on how to sustainably manage forests in the context of climate change, as well as indicate forests’ role in atmospheric carbon dioxide removal, and there are multiple opportunities for extension of its application.