Ecology, Environment and Conservation Paper

ASSESSMENT OF DIFFERENT TYPE OF PEAT PROPERTIES IN JOHOR FOR CARBON STOCK CONSERVATION

Junita Abd Rahman, Radin Maya Saphira Radin Mohamed, Nor Haakmal Ab Durahim, Syafik AkmalTajuddin, Adel Ali Saeed Al-Gheethi and Nurina Fitriani

Abstract

Peat in Johor covered almost 30 % of the land and made Johor the third largest state in Malaysia with high carbon stock. It is estimated that world carbon stock has decreased dramatically since year 1980 due to deforestation, open/wild fires and replant for commercial purpose. Carbon stock is crucial to be maintained as it helps the ecosystem balance through controlling greenhouse effect and climate mitigation this paper aims to raise awareness among researchers that carbon stock in wetland could be conserved by understanding the nature of the peat formation. Peat properties were given attention as it is the core knowledge on peat.The fabric, hemic and sapric of Johor peat properties were characterized according to BS1377:1991 and ASTM 1990 for its Loss on Ignition (LOI), fiber content, particle size distribution, moisture content, unconfined compressive strength and pH while microbiological measurement using bacteria count and enzymeassessment. For Johor peat, it was recognized that pH 3-5, moisture content of 150-700 % and bacteria count of x1013 – x1015 CFU/g are an ideal condition to keep the peat formation on track. The formation of peat should balance with the carbon consumption in respective peat area. The source of bacteria food which is plant remains should be supplied consistently. It is recommended that the tree bunch to be scrapped and put around the tree for efficient carbon replacement.