Investigation of the CO2 Sequestration Potential of Buffel Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) in Kenyan Grasslands, Case of South Baringo County

Abstract

This study investigates the carbon sequestration potential in Buffel grass landscapes, focusing on the influence of soil biophysical conditions and climate factors. The primary objective was to assess how soil properties, such as pH, bulk density, texture, and carbon content in above-ground biomass (AGB), below-ground biomass (BGB), and soil organic carbon (SOC), contribute to the total carbon sequestration potential. The role of climate factors, including temperature and precipitation, was also evaluated. A multiple linear regression model was developed to examine the relationships between these independent variables and total carbon (sequestered). The results showed that BGB was the strongest predictor of carbon sequestration, followed by AGB and SOC, while soil pH and texture had minimal impact. Although the model perfectly predicts carbon sequestration in Buffel grass landscapes, long-term monitoring and climate data integration is recommended for further understanding. The study suggests that adopting practices that improve below-ground biomass and maintain healthy soil organic carbon levels could enhance carbon storage in similar ecosystems. The findings highlight the importance of soil properties in optimizing carbon sequestration and inform land management practices to enhance carbon storage in grassland ecosystems and mitigate climate change.