Assessment of Green Carbon Stock in the Karst Forests of Paranas, Samar: A Study Report

The research study was aimed at generating baseline information on the carbon stock and diversity of tree and palm species in the Karst Forests of Paranas, Samar. The baseline information is intended to raise the awareness and understanding of local communities on the ecosystems value of the karst forests to their lives and living, and the environment. The information is also expected to serve as guide and basis in the formulation and implementation of policies and programs for the effective and efficient management and protection of the karst forests.

Recognizing the valuable ecosystems services that the Paranas karst forests provide to local communities and the environment, there is an urgent need to enhance their protection and management. Such improvements require local communities’ genuine commitment and participation, coupled with effective and doable governance arrangements where the local people and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Samar Island Natural Park can work efficiently and harmoniously together.

Authors:

• Eduardo O. Mangaoang
• Dennis P. Peque
• Dianne Pearl Naldo
• Lorenn Laurente