DBC Enhanced Monitoring for Risk Mitigation Plan

To improve accuracy and reduce uncertainty in carbon accounting, the project is implementing advanced monitoring technologies and methodologies:

Advanced monitoring technologies and methodologies

Geospatial Monitoring (UAV, LiDAR, Multispectral Imaging)

  • Replaces traditional plot-based sampling with wall-to-wall coverage, eliminating gaps from inaccessible areas.
  • Enables high-resolution biomass mapping and detection of small-scale disturbances.
  • Multi-temporal analysis tracks growth trends and stress responses (e.g., drought, salinity changes).

 

Spatial Regression Models (allometric models) for Biomass Prediction

  • Integrates field measurements with remote sensing data to calibrate and validate AGB estimates.
  • Reduces reliance on generalized allometric equations by linking spectral signatures to actual biomass.

 

Soil Carbon Monitoring Program (2026 Onward)

  • Paired-plot sampling (restored vs. natural mangroves) to isolate project-induced SOC changes.
  • Seasonal core sampling captures dynamic carbon fluxes influenced by tides and freshwater inputs.
  • Will replace default IPCC values with delta-specific SOC accumulation rates.

 

Disturbance & Resilience Tracking

  • Satellite-based NDVI/EVI trends (1992–2022) confirm no flood/cyclone-induced dieback.
  • Post-cyclone field assessments (e.g., Cyclone Biparjoy 2023) validate mangrove resilience.

Our immediate goals are to finalise drone and LiDAR data collection protocols by the end of Q3 2025 ; begin destructive biomass sampling in 2025 to develop accurate local allometric equations; prepare and publish the first empirical estimates of soil organic carbon (SOC) accumulation rates by 2026. We will be publishing our initial results and findings over the coming weeks and providing monthly updates thereafter.

LiDAR Scanner Tree Segmentation

RENDVI image