Above Ground Carbon (High Resolution)

Provides high-resolution data on carbon stored in trees, crucial for verifying carbon credits and tracking the impacts of deforestation, afforestation and natural regeneration.

availability

On Demand

Now

indicator tier

Gold

unit

Tonnes of Carbon

spatial resolution

3.5m

measurement frequency

Quarterly

measurement level

Plot

historic data availability

2018 - 2024

Forescast data availability

N/A

applicable crop types

Tree Crops

applicable land type

Forestry

Conservation

Cropland

compliance frameworks

CSRD (ESRS E1), EUDR, Nature Positive Initiative (NPI), SBTN, SBTi, TNFD

description

Measures the amount of carbon stored in live woody vegetation, from large forest areas down to individual tree stands. This high-resolution dataset is essential for detailed forest carbon analysis, verification of carbon credits, and precise monitoring of deforestation and reforestation projects. It offers a scalable solution to track carbon stocks over time without the need for extensive fieldwork.

methodology

Above ground carbon stocks are quantified using an AI model and the combination of multiple satellite monitoring technologies (3D laser scanning and optical imaging). The model is calibrated with precise 3D forest structure data from the GEDI LiDAR and optical satellite data (Landsat 8/9, Sentinel 2) and generates annual, wall-to-wall carbon stock maps at 30m spatial resolution. For this data, we partner with Planet.

validation

Validation of this indicator involves cross-referencing biomass carbon estimates with established global carbon monitoring databases (e.g., Global Forest Watch, FAO Global Forest Resources Assessments) and satellite-derived biomass products. Validation can include field-based biomass sampling or comparison against peer-reviewed regional carbon inventories. The consistency of satellite-derived data (e.g., from SMAP, SMOS, Landsat, Sentinel 2/3, and MODIS) should be checked for algorithm integrity and calibration records.