Economic Valuation of Carbon Sequestration in Urban Green Areas

A Comparative Study Between Brazil and Portugal Using i-Tree Eco

Abstract

Objective – To quantify and compare the ecosystem service of carbon capture and storage in two urban green areas: the Santa Genebra Forest (Campinas, Brazil) and the Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra (Coimbra, Portugal), using the i-Tree Eco tool.

Methodology – The study employed i-Tree Eco v.6 software, using species-specific allometric equations to estimate biomass and stored carbon from dendrometric data. Economic valuation was based on the European (EEX) and Brazilian (BM&FBOVESPA) carbon markets.

Originality/Relevance – This research addresses a gap in the quantification and economic valuation of carbon sequestration ecosystem services in Ibero-American urban environments, providing a comparative basis between distinct biogeographic and management contexts.

Results – Both areas demonstrated significant carbon storage and sequestration capacity, with the Brazilian site standing out in absolute volume and the Portuguese site in efficiency per unit area.

Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – Validates the application of the i-Tree Eco methodology in urban contexts in Latin America and Europe, providing a replicable protocol for the valuation of climate regulation services.

Social and Environmental Contributions The study provides technical support for public policies on conservation and sustainable urban planning, highlighting the economic and environmental value of urban green areas. The results reinforce the importance of these spaces as critical infrastructure for climate change mitigation, promoting greater urban resilience and direct public health benefits through improved air quality and thermal comfort.