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The global terrestrial carbon cycle

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Abstract

There is great uncertainty with regard to the future role of the terrestrial biosphere in the global carbon cycle. The uncertainty arises from both an inadequate understanding of current pools and fluxes as well as the potential effects of rising atmospheric concentrations of CO2 on natural ecosystems. Despite these limitations, a number of studies have estimated current and future patterns of terrestrial carbon storage. Future estimates focus on the effects of a climate change associated with a doubled atmospheric concentration of CO2. Available models for examining the dynamics of terrestrial carbon storage and the potential role of forest management and landuse practices on carbon conservation and sequestration are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Virginia, 22903, Charlottesville, VA, USA

    T. M. Smith

  2. Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), 0-1500, Telegrafen, Potsdam, Germany

    W. P. Cramer

  3. Environmental Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 97331, Corvallis, OR, USA

    R. K. Dixon

  4. National Institute for Public Health and Environmental Protection (RIVM), 3720, Bilthoven, The Netherlands

    R. Leemans

  5. USDA Forest Service-Pacific Northwest Research Station, 97333, Corvallis, OR, USA

    R. P. Neilson

  6. Environmental Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 97331, Corvallis, OR, USA

    A. M. Solomon

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The information in document has been partially funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It has been subjected to the Agency's peer and administrative review, and has been approved for publication as an EPA document. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.

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Smith, T.M., Cramer, W.P., Dixon, R.K. et al. The global terrestrial carbon cycle. Water Air Soil Pollut 70, 19–37 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01104986

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