Estimation of potential carbon sequestration in Thai reforestation from mining, based on the integrated spatial analysis

Abstract

Mining, an activity that dates to the earliest stages of human civilization, has played a vital role in fulfilling human requirements for an extended period of time. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that this particular activity accounts for a significant proportion, ranging from 4% to 7% of the overall world greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions mostly consist of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrogen oxides, which are released because of fuel burning, on-site energy generation, and many other sources. The mining industry, as a constituent of industrial process and product use (IPPU) sector in Thailand, makes a substantial contribution to these emissions. Thailand is now engaged in the implementation of carbon sequestration strategies, specifically focusing on the reclamation and replanting of post-mining zones. This initiative aims to tackle the various issues associated with small-scale operations within the country’s mining sector. The objective of this study is to analyse the carbon sequestration potential of Thailand’s mining area through the utilization of satellite pictures obtained from LANDSAT 8 OLI and Geographic Information System (GIS) applications. This study assesses the present carbon storage capacity, establishes the appropriate carbon pricing, and investigates the potential for reforestation in mining areas inside the nation. Based on the findings, it is evident that the northern region of Thailand has the most substantial potential for carbon sequestration, mostly due to the presence of vegetated land. Furthermore, it is projected that the overall carbon sequestration capacity in Thailand will amount to 14.68 MtCO₂e in 2023 and 28.02 MtCO₂e in 2030.

Keywords:

• Carbon sequestration
• remote sensing
• mining
• reclamation
• GIS

Subject classification codes:

• include these here if the journal requires them

Disclosure statement

I have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

Data availability statement

The data that supports the findings of this study is available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Additional information

Funding

This research is conducted without any grant or support from either the government or private agencies.