Measuring Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Ponds Enhances Climate Forecasting

Emissions of greenhouse gases from shallow lakes and ponds are significant, but the variations in emissions from these systems are not well understood. To address this knowledge gap, a recent study led by Cornell University examined methane and carbon dioxide emissions from 30 small lakes and ponds in temperate regions of Europe and North America. The findings revealed that the smallest and shallowest water bodies exhibited the highest variability in emissions over time.

Advancing Climate Models

The study is a crucial step toward improving climate models and accurately predicting emissions from inland water bodies. It emphasizes the importance of studying small water bodies more closely. The research helps to identify the factors influencing greenhouse gas concentrations and the reasons behind the variability in some ponds. The results can be used to predict which water bodies are more likely to have varying emissions and highlight the need for frequent sampling.

Previous estimates by the researchers suggested that shallow lakes and ponds may contribute around 5% of global methane emissions. However, without comprehensive measurements from numerous water bodies, this figure could range from half to twice that percentage.

While some small lakes and ponds consistently emit greenhouse gases in predictable amounts, others display high variability. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as carbon dioxide and methane are potent greenhouse gases, with methane being 25 times more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide.

Unveiling Spatial Variability

The study involved sampling each water body during the summers of 2018 and 2019 at three different locations, including the deepest point and two locations at opposite ends. Carbon dioxide samples showed consistency throughout the water body, suggesting that a single sample could provide an accurate representation.

However, methane samples needed to be collected from multiple locations for an accurate measure. The study also found that shallower systems exhibited more variability in methane emissions, indicating that stratification in deeper water may hinder the rise of gases to the surface.

The variability in carbon dioxide emissions was influenced by the amount of plant life in the water, while methane variability was more related to water depth and stratification in the water column.

Apart from advancing scientific understanding, the study lays the foundation for informing climate mitigation strategies. For instance, in New York state, the findings can guide the development of ponds that help farmers manage droughts more effectively. The research team aims to identify pond construction methods or management strategies that minimize greenhouse gas emissions.

Overall, this study sheds light on the emissions dynamics of small lakes and ponds, enabling better predictions of greenhouse gas contributions and the development of strategies to mitigate their impact.

Read the original article on Science Daily.

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