Carbon Sequestration
/KAR-bun see-kwes-TRAY-shun/🦋 Ecology●●● Advanced
Also known as: carbon capture, carbon storage
The long-term capture and storage of atmospheric CO₂ in plant biomass and soils through photosynthesis. Trees are significant carbon sinks, with large specimens storing several tons of carbon in wood, roots, and associated soil organic matter. Urban forests provide measurable carbon sequestration services.
Etymology
Latin carbo (charcoal, coal) + sequestrare (to set aside, deposit)
Example
“A mature oak tree sequesters approximately 48 pounds of CO₂ per year through photosynthesis.”