Hiilivaraus

Hiilivaraus, often translated as "carbon reserve" or "carbon stock," refers to the quantity of carbon stored within a specific ecosystem, organism, or geological formation. It encompasses organic and inorganic carbon compounds. These reserves are crucial components of the global carbon cycle, influencing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and Earth's climate. Major terrestrial carbon reserves include forests, soils, and peatlands, which store vast amounts of carbon in biomass and organic matter. Aquatic ecosystems, such as oceans, sediments, and freshwater bodies, also hold significant carbon reserves. Geological formations like coal, oil, and natural gas represent long-term, fossilized carbon reserves. Changes in land use, deforestation, and the combustion of fossil fuels can significantly alter these reserves, leading to the release of stored carbon into the atmosphere. Understanding and monitoring hiilivaraus is essential for climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies, as it helps quantify carbon sequestration potential and track emissions.