If correct, that extra 125 billion tonnes of carbon could lead to an increase in the number of forest-based carbon credits set to be offered in carbon markets around the world.
Forests are considered sinks of carbon as they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to reduce the concentration of the top heat-trapping gas.
Deforestation reduces the number of trees absorbing carbon dioxide and also releases carbon back into the atmosphere.
Scientists from the University of Edinburgh say they have developed a new 3D system to measure forests' carbon content that is more detailed and accurate than current methods.
For the study, the group analyzed a specific forested area in Costa Rica and compared resulting data with previous calculations of carbon stocks.
Most projects that generate carbon credits by reducing emissions from deforestation (REDD) use satellite images associated with estimates of carbon content which vary depending on the type of forest.
The system used by the Edinburgh scientists is based on 3D data extracted from airborne laser scanning.
Forests are considered sinks of carbon as they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to reduce the concentration of the top heat-trapping gas.
Deforestation reduces the number of trees absorbing carbon dioxide and also releases carbon back into the atmosphere.
Scientists from the University of Edinburgh say they have developed a new 3D system to measure forests' carbon content that is more detailed and accurate than current methods.
For the study, the group analyzed a specific forested area in Costa Rica and compared resulting data with previous calculations of carbon stocks.
Most projects that generate carbon credits by reducing emissions from deforestation (REDD) use satellite images associated with estimates of carbon content which vary depending on the type of forest.
The system used by the Edinburgh scientists is based on 3D data extracted from airborne laser scanning.