Climate change and rising atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels have become major global environmental concerns due to rapid industrialisation, urbanisation, deforestation, and excessive fossil fuel use. Carbon sequestration through plants is an effective natural method for reducing atmospheric CO2 and mitigating climate change. Flowering plants and ornamental trees play an important role in this process by absorbing carbon dioxide through photosynthesis and storing it in their biomass and the surrounding soil. Besides their aesthetic value, ornamental plants contribute to urban greening, biodiversity conservation, air purification, temperature regulation, and ecological sustainability. Large ornamental trees with dense canopies and long lifespans act as significant carbon sinks, while flowering plants, shrubs, and turfgrass improve soil organic carbon and microclimatic conditions. Indoor ornamental plants such as Snake Plant, Areca Palm, Spider Plant, and Peace Lily also help reduce indoor air pollutants and improve environmental quality. Urban landscaping practices, including green belts, roadside plantations, rooftop gardens, and vertical gardens, enhance carbon storage and help reduce the urban heat island effect. However, factors such as limited urban space, pollution stress, poor maintenance, and deforestation reduce the efficiency of urban green carbon storage. Sustainable ornamental landscaping, community participation in tree planting, and conservation of urban green spaces are essential for improving carbon sequestration potential and promoting climate-resilient cities. Therefore, flowering plants and ornamental trees are valuable tools for environmental protection and sustainable urban development.
Carbon Sequestration, Potential, Flowering Plants, Ornamental Trees
