Patrício, Maria SameiroEl Baine, ChaimaeNunes, Luís2026-04-102026-04-102025Patrício, Maria Sameiro; El Baine, Chaimae; Nunes, Luís (2025). Carbon sequestration in chestnut coppices: impact of shoot density simulated with the CO2Fix model. In V Simpósio Nacional da Castanha. Sabugalhttp://hdl.handle.net/10198/36508The carbon cycle plays a vital role in maintaining ecosystem stability by regulating the flow of organic matter and influencing global climate dynamics. However, rising CO₂ emissions from human activities have disrupted this balance, driving climate change and increasing the frequency of extreme weather events. Addressing this challenge requires strengthening natural carbon sinks, particularly forests, which store significant amounts of carbon in both biomass and soils. Sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) coppice systems are promising for carbon sequestration due to their fast growth and potential for long-term carbon storage. Despite their ecological importance, many chestnut coppices remain unmanaged due to limited economic returns. Innovative strategies, such as payments for ecosystem services, could unlock their potential and enhance their contribution to climate change mitigation while promoting sustainable forest management.This study assesses the carbon sequestration and storage potential of sweet chestnut coppices using the CO₂FIX model, calibrated with field data from northeastern Portugal. The main objectives are to: Calibrate the CO₂FIX model to predict biomass and carbon stocks under different management practices. Validate model accuracy by comparing simulations with observed field data. Optimize parameterization to improved reliability for chestnut coppice systems. Identify growth constraints to support sustainable management strategies.engCastanea sativaCastanheiroModelaçãoSequestro de carbonoSilviculturaTalhadiaconference poster