Are We Conscious of Isoprene Emissions from Our Poplar Plantations?

The growing energy demand and increasing pollution due to conventional energy sources prompted the concept of bioenergy plantations, which are considered as carbon neutral. The area under bioenergy plantations is increasing rapidly to meet economical and ecological societal needs. Poplar is one of the most important sources of green energy amongst all species. It is widely cultivated as a bioenergy crop due to its fast growth, short rotation and carbon neutrality. However, one of the major aspects that we must consider is that it is a strong emitter of isoprene which can alter ozone flux in the atmosphere. Owing to its extremely reactive nature, isoprene may substantially influence the tropospheric composition by affecting its oxidative capacity with serious impact on air health, global warming, ecological functions and thus human life. We should assess isoprene emissions from existing poplar plantations and the expected increase in isoprene load with future expansion of poplar plantations in India, to know their long-term effect on atmospheric chemistry and climate change. This will help in deciding whether we should further promote poplar plantations, or look for suitable alternative non-/low-emitting species for bioenergy plantations.