What is the Potential for Carbon Sequestration by the Terrestrial Biosphere?

• Quantity of annual carbon sequestration by terrestrial ecosystems can be measured at a reasonable accuracy; • Median measure of current NEP or sequestration by forested ecosystems is 3 metric tons per hectare per year; • Current calculated global TBCS for forests is ~3Gt C per yr; • Estimated future TBCS capacity is 200-250 Gt C using available knowledge and current technology and management practice at nominal estimated cost of $10-20 per metric ton of C; • It seems reasonable to assume that advanced science, technology, and management can double the capacity at low additional costs. • TBCS option offers potential for sequestering more than 50 percent of projected excess CO2 that will have to be managed over the next century.