Checking the progress of using the static chamber method for the measurement of greenhouse gases in Latin America

Abstract

Manual static chamber is one of the most widespread methods for the quantification of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions from agricultural systems. But there are concerns about the reliability of measurements and a necessity to assess the static chambers used in the studies performed in the countries of Latin America. Thus, this study aims to investigate the quality of the characteristics from the static chamber methodology, the confidence level of the GHG measurements, and recommend what should be improved. We conducted a systematic review of databases to identify peer-reviewed articles that used the static chamber method in Latin America. A total of 90 articles were analyzed and separated according to the publication year (2000-2008, 2009-2015, 2016-2020). We evaluated eight design and deployment chamber characteristics. The depth of base insertion and type of storage vial received the lowest scores, and the number of samples received the highest score. The description and reporting of the methodological procedures in the studies should be improved. The percentage of articles with high and medium confidence levels increased within the time, and the number of articles with low and very low confidence levels reduced. Scientists/Researchers should continue to follow the protocols, especially the most updated ones.

Keywords

• ghg management
• methodologies
• protocols and standards
• performance measurement
• south america