CO2 removal characteristics of a novel type of moss and its potential for urban green roof applications

Abstract The feasibility of a novel type of moss (Parkortanso No. 1 synthesized from Racomitrium japonicum, Dozy and Molk) to capture CO2 in urban areas was demonstrated. The effects of light intensity (500, 1000, and 1500 µmol/m2.s), ambient temperature (10 °C, 25 °C, and 35 °C), age (1-year-old and 3 years old), and leaf color (bright and dark green) on the CO2 removal caused by the moss concerned were investigated. It was determined that stronger light intensity resulted in higher CO2 removal by the target moss. The moss showed the best CO2 capture at 25 °C, while the CO2-capturing capacities declined when the ambient temperatures were 10 °C and 35 °C. Three years old bright green moss was found to have higher CO2-capturing capacity than 1 year old. Similarly, bright green moss exhibited the best CO2 uptake out of the mosses concerned. The highest net CO2 emission of the moss was − 1.94 ± 0.72 kgCO2/m2.year, which was comparable to other moss and plant species. Consequently, the bright green and old Parkortanso No. 1 moss are recommended for a green roof application in terms of CO2 capture. Graphical Abstract