Phytodiversity Documentation and Carbon Stock Assessment of Urban Green Space in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, India

Abstract

Urban green spaces (UGS) are vital "carbon stock" repositories that mitigate urban heat while supporting psychological well-being. This study documents plant diversity and assesses carbon sequestration potential across three urban parks in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, India: Bilasa Taal Vasundhara Udyan (BTVU), Energy Education (EE) Park, and Smriti Van (SV) Rajkishorenagar. Using 56 quadrats, the researchers analyzed vegetation structure, biomass accumulation, and carbon storage. A total of 67 plant species across 28 families were identified, dominated by 56 tree species. EE Park exhibited the highest tree richness (35 species) and density (1208.76 stems ha⁻¹), as well as the highest Shannon diversity index ($H' = 3.60$). Conversely, SV Rajkishorenagar recorded the lowest richness (19 tree species) but the highest total tree basal cover (105.04 m² ha⁻¹) and beta diversity ($\beta d = 3.53$), indicating significant species turnover. Biomass and carbon stock analysis revealed that trees are the primary contributors to sequestration in these areas. SV Rajkishorenagar stored the maximum carbon at 497.41 t ha⁻¹, followed by BTVU at 425.62 t ha⁻¹ and EE Park at 277.54 t ha⁻¹. Within these stocks, branches and roots represented the largest carbon fractions. These findings indicate that mature urban stands in Bilaspur provide sequestration services comparable to tropical forests. The study offers critical data for sustainable urban planning and greenhouse gas mitigation, recommending the selection of high-sequestration species for future green space development in industrial and urban centers.