Climate-change mitigation strategies at the level of a forestry company in the light of age-class legacy effects

17 S.

e-journal

200212425

Key message: We analyzed the future carbon balance of 47,000 ha of forests dominated primarily by Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and managed by the Szombathely Forestry Company in Hungary. Biomass, harvested wood products, and substitution effects were considered. Strong age-class legacy effects predetermine the biomass pool to turn into a carbon source with increased harvest. The highest harvesting intensity scenario proved most favorable for the overall carbon balance up to 2055. Conclusions: We conclude that the company should base its management decisions on the broader carbon balance of the forest-based sector, while adhering to the Forest Authority’s harvesting age prescriptions to ensure long-term sustainability.