Student Research Reports

View Research Report

Abstract This research aims to study the carbon sequestration capacity of perennial trees and determine the carbon offset potential of Kasetsart University Laboratory School (Center for Educational Research and Development), ultimately comparing these figures to assess evaluate the feasibility of achieving carbon neutrality. The study was conducted at the Botanical Garden area, where tree species and populations were surveyed. Methodology involved measuring tree circumference at breast height (1.30 meters) and total height during two data collection periods: January 2025 and December 2025. Data analysis included calculating above-ground biomass, carbon sequestration, and the annual carbon increment over a one-year period. Furthermore, the school’s carbon footprint was analyzed in accordance with the GHG Protocol. Finally, the carbon sequestration data was compared against the total carbon footprint to analyze the school's carbon balance and self-mitigation capacity The study results can be summarized as follows: 1. First Survey (January 2025): The total biomass of perennial trees in the study area was 45,435.64 kg, with a total carbon sequestration of 21,354.75 kg. 2. Second Survey (December 2025): The total biomass increased to 59,183.17 kg, with a total carbon sequestration of 27,816.09 kg. 3. Annual Carbon Footprint (2025): The organizational carbon footprint for Scope 1 and Scope 2 was measured at 2,125,723.94 kgCO2e. 4. Carbon Neutrality Analysis: The current carbon sequestration capacity of perennial trees within the Kasetsart University Laboratory School (Center for Educational Research and Development) is insufficient to offset the greenhouse gas emissions generated by school activities. To achieve the goal of Carbon Neutrality, the research team proposes the following strategic recommendations which are Green Space Expansion: Increase the density of green spaces within the school by prioritizing high-potential carbon-sequestering species identified in this study, namely the Ficus (Ficus maclellandii), Bastard Poon Tree (Sterculia foetida), and Rain Tree (Albizia saman). Carbon Credit Procurement: Explore and study guidelines for acquiring external carbon credits to offset the residual greenhouse gas emissions that cannot be mitigated internally. And Strategic Alignment: These actions will drive the school toward becoming a Low-Carbon Educational Model, aligning with the KU Carbon Neutrality 2035 strategy.