Urban Wet Carbon Accounting and Climate Change

Project Overview

Wetlands play a critical role in the global climate system—serving as sources, sinks, and reservoirs of carbon. This research focuses on evaluating carbon storage capacities of wetlands in the New York region, particularly in the context of environmental degradation and ecosystem restoration. The study aims to assess the biogeochemical significance of these wetlands and their relevance to regional climate mitigation efforts.

Using a combination of satellite remote sensing and ground-based observational data, the project will quantify carbon stocks and fluxes across the lower Hudson Valley and Long Island Sound. It will also support the development of methodologies suitable for Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) frameworks applied to coastal wetland ecosystems.

The successful applicant will integrate remote sensing technologies with detailed field and lab analyses to determine wetland distribution, sediment depth, and carbon content in both riverine and estuarine/marine settings. Additionally, the project will explore the contribution of these wetlands to lateral organic carbon exchanges with adjacent coastal and estuarine waters.

This integrated approach will provide a comprehensive understanding of carbon dynamics between wetlands, the atmosphere, and nearby aquatic systems. It will also offer critical insights into how land use, climate change, and habitat transformations influence these carbon reservoirs—information vital for informed carbon management and policy development.

Strong proficiency in remote sensing, GIS, or blue carbon science is essential.

Earth Science