Analysis of Wood Density to Compare the Amount of Accumulated Carbon Dioxide in the Stems of Selected Non-Native Tree Species in Poland

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Abstract

One of the priorities in European policy is the greater use of wood. In this context, it is important to know the total amount of CO2 absorbed by the tree and accumulated in the wood. In the timber industry, butt logs are mainly processed. The aim of this study is to analyze diameter at breast height (DBH), wood density (WD), and the amount of CO2 in grand fir (GF), Douglas fir (DF), northern red oak (NRO), and black locust (BL) wood. The DBH and bark thickness were measured, and cores were taken to study WD and calculate the amount of CO2. Analyses were conducted in three age classes of trees. It was found that in the youngest age class, DF had a significantly larger DBH compared to NRO and BL, and GF had a significantly larger DBH compared to NRO. The wood density of coniferous species was significantly lower compared to broadleaved species. DF absorbed the most CO2. In Class III, DF had significantly larger DBH and significantly lower wood density compared to NRO and BL. DF absorbed significantly more CO2 compared to NRO. In Classes IV and V, DF had larger DBH compared to NRO and lower wood density. The amount of CO2 absorbed by both species was similar. Taking into account the amount of absorbed CO2, the durability of the wood, and aspects related to sustainable forest management of the four studied non-native tree species, Douglas fir seems to be the best choice for cultivation in Polish forests.

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