Potential of Alnus acuminata based agroforestry for carbon sequestration and other ecosystem services in Rwanda

Abstract Alnus acuminata Kunth. (alnus) is widely used in agroforestry systems across the globe and believed to provide multiple ecosystem services; however, evidence lacking literature support perceived benefits, particularly Rwanda. To understand carbon sequestration potential other benefits of alnus, a household survey, tree inventory destructive sampling were conducted north-western Over 75% respondents had alnus trees their farms. The stakes for climbing beans, firewood timber. They also improve soil fertility control erosion. Farmers between 130 161 per hectare with an average height 7.7 ± 0.59 m diameter at breast 16.3 1.39 cm. largest biomass proportion was found stems (70.5%) while branches leaves stock about 16.5 13% total biomass, respectively. At farm level, aboveground estimated be 27.2 0.7 Mg ha ?1 representing 13.6 (C) hectare. Biomass increased size, from 7.1 0.2 C 3 years old 34.4 2.2 10 trees. converse observed elevation; decreased increasing elevation 21.4 1.29 low (2011–2110 m) 9.6 0.75 high (> 2510 m). In conclusion, significantly contributes sequestration, although magnitude these varies age elevation. Planting on farms can meet local needs wood improvement, as well global need regulation climate change.