Ecological potential and carbon sequestration of forest areas of Baitugan oil field in Orenburg region

Ecological potential of forests is assessed as the efficiency of basic ecological functions implementation by forest-forming plant species. Forests perform a primary ecological role in carbon dioxide sequestration in the areas with intensive industrial development particularly in the areas of oil and gas production and transportation of oil and oil products. At present, as a result of the significant increase in air pollution by carbon oxides, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, formaldehyde, benz(a)pyrene and other substances, the issues of comprehensive studies of the sorbing and sequestring functions of forests are developing more and more. Taking into account the increased level of aerial technogenic impact on forest communities of natural and artificial origin in the area of Baitugan oilfield, it becomes important to study the volumes of carbon sequestration by trees and shrubs. The task of the work was to assess the environmental impact on the forest communities, make a forecast and work out effective mechanisms for preservation and enhancing of forest vegetation resilience with the aim of minimizing aerial technogenic pollution of natural environment...