Coupling Hydrological Modeling with Carbon Flux Calculations: A GSSHA-Based Approach for Evaluating Carbon Emissions in Watersheds

The interaction between hydrological and biogeochemical processes, combined with the variability across diverse vegetation ecosystems, presents significant challenges in developing mathematical models for water and carbon exchanges. As a result, research on carbon sink calculations specific to watersheds remains limited. This study aims to address this gap by exploring the link between hydrological and carbon cycles within a watershed using the Gridded Surface/Subsurface Hydrologic Analysis (GSSHA). Focusing on the Lanyang River in Yilan, Taiwan, the research simulates hydrological changes during rainfall events, analyzing key parameters such as water depth, flow, and evaporation to gain insights into the river's hydrological cycle. By linking hydrological and carbon cycles, this research aims to provide insights into carbon dioxide emissions from watersheds. The findings could be applied to inform policy development for reducing watershed-based carbon emissions and enhancing carbon sink potential.