Carbon content and carbon stocks in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem components of Murmansk Region, Russia, in the impact zone of JSC “Kola MMC

In Murmansk Region, Russia, researchers from the Institute of North Industrial Ecology Problems of the Kola Science Centre, Russian Academy of Sciences (INEP KSC RAS), together with JSC “Kola MMC”, conducted the first integrated assessment of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems to evaluate their carbon sequestration capacity in the vicinity of metallurgical operations at the Monchegorsk site. During field campaigns in 2024–2025, new data were obtained on the composition of soils, waters, and bottom sediments in background areas and in areas affected by industrial activity. Analysis of these field data, combined with long-term monitoring records, indicates that the carbon sequestration potential of northern ecosystems, including those exposed to industrial emissions, has been systematically underestimated. Actual estimates were generated for carbon storage across major ecosystem components, including forest, freshwater, and peatland systems. The results will support improvements to the national monitoring system for climate-active substances and inform the planning of compensatory measures aimed at reducing atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations. Continued research will enable more accurate assessments of the carbon sequestration potential of northern ecosystems and provide scientific and methodological guidance for ecosystem adaptation to climate change and for achieving regional carbon neutrality, including through nature-based climate projects.

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