Reducing the uncertainty in the forest volume-to-biomass relationship built from limited field plots

TL;DR

This paper proposes a method to verify and improve volume-to-biomass equations in forest biomass estimation, reducing bias and uncertainty from limited field data, thereby enhancing large-scale carbon stock assessments.

Contribution

It introduces a verification approach using wood densities and error restriction techniques to improve the reliability of volume-biomass equations from limited field plots.

Findings

Enhanced accuracy of biomass estimates

Reduced bias in volume-biomass relationships

Better understanding of uncertainty sources

Abstract

The method of biomass estimation based on a volume-to-biomass relationship has been applied in estimating forest biomass conventionally through the mean volume (m3 ha-1). However, few studies have been reported concerning the verification of the volume-biomass equations regressed using field data. The possible bias may result from the volume measurements and extrapolations from sample plots to stands or a unit area. This paper addresses (i) how to verify the volume-biomass equations, and (ii) how to reduce the bias while building these equations. This paper presents an applicable method for verifying the field data using reasonable wood densities, restricting the error in field data processing based on limited field plots, and achieving a better understanding of the uncertainty in building those equations. The verified and improved volume-biomass equations are more reliable and will help to estimate forest carbon sequestration and carbon balance at any large scale.