Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 26 Mar 2002

Vol. 551 No. 2

Written Answers. - Afforestation Programme.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

135 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which a hectare of sitka spruce or western red cedar have a capability to combat ozone depletion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10305/02]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

136 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the anticipated extra area proposed for afforestation in 2002; the extent to which such plantation is likely to address the needs as identified at Kyoto in terms of protection of the ozone layer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10307/02]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 135 and 136 together.

The national climate change strategy identifies the key role to be played by forestry in meeting Ireland's commitments under the Kyoto Protocol and sets a target for forests to contribute 6% to the proposed reductions in emissions through an intensification of the afforestation programme. While it is difficult to forecast planting levels at this early stage of the year, it is anticipated that planting levels for 2002 may be in the order of 18,000 hectares. In the context of carbon sequestration, conifers including sitka spruce and western red cedar are particularly well suited. It is estimated that, on average, one hectare of sitka spruce absorbs 3.3 tonnes of carbon per year. Over its rotation, one hectare of conifers will remove approximately 100 tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere, making conifers exceptionally efficient in combating the greenhouse gas effect. With regard to the suitability of particular species, soil and site determine the rate of forest growth and consequently the potential for carbon storage. COFORD, the Council for Forest Research and Development, is carrying out extensive work in the area of carbon sequestration with a view to maximising the sequestration potential of Irish forests. A research and development contract has been negotiated which will refine current estimates of carbon stocks in the Irish forest estate. The results of this research will inform future forestry policy.