Estimating Atmospheric Forest Carbon Loss in East Baton Rouge Parish Using Satellite Remote Sensing: A Critical Tool for Climate Change Mitigation

Abstract. Forests play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle, primarily by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO₂) during photosynthesis. However, it is often overlooked that forests also release CO₂ into the atmosphere at night through respiration or degradation, processes that can significantly contribute to atmospheric carbon levels. This study therefore focuses on estimating atmospheric forest carbon loss in East Baton Rouge Parish using satellite remote sensing as a critical tool for climate change mitigation. By employing Sentinel satellite data, the Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) of the forested areas will be obtained using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR), and Light Use Efficiency. The Net Primary Productivity (NPP) will then be estimated by subtracting Autotrophic Respiration from the GPP to determine the overall carbon balance of the forests. The research highlights the irony that while forests are expected to act as carbon sinks, they also contribute to CO₂ emissions. Understanding this dual role is essential for accurate carbon accounting and for informing climate policies. The results from this study will provide valuable insights into the temporal dynamics of forest carbon loss in East Baton Rouge Parish, helping to refine climate models and develop more effective climate change mitigation strategies. By integrating these findings into local and national policies, better forest resource management can be practiced contributing to the global efforts in reducing atmospheric carbon levels, ultimately mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.