Uncertainties of the regional terrestrial biota Full Carbon Account : A systems analysis

We discuss the background and methods for estimating uncertainty in establishing a regional, terrestrial biota Full Carbon Account (FCA) in a holistic manner utilizing our experiences in generating such an account for a vast region in Northern Eurasia. For such an analysis, it is important to (1) provide a full account; (2) consider the relevance of a certified account; (3) understand that any FCA is a fuzzy system; as well as (4) understanding that a comprehensive assessment of uncertainties requires combining system constraints to the methodology and structure of the FCA. We believe that at the current level of knowledge and available information a certified FCA for large regions of the Northern hemisphere could be realized for present and recent periods.