Overview
Blue carbon refers to the carbon stored in coastal and marine ecosystems, primarily mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass meadows. These ecosystems sequester carbon at rates up to 10 times greater than terrestrial forests per unit area. They also provide critical services including coastal protection, fishery nurseries, and biodiversity habitat. Despite their importance, blue carbon ecosystems are being lost at alarming rates. Growing recognition of their value is driving conservation and restoration projects financed through carbon credits and international agreements.
Tags
blue carbonmangrovesseagrassocean conservation
Economic Impact
Medium Impact
Protecting $30B+ in coastal assets annually while generating carbon credit revenue.
Emerged
2009
Related Topics
Finance
Carbon Credit Trading
Market-based approach allowing companies to buy and sell emission allowances.
Agriculture
Regenerative Agriculture
Farming practices that restore soil health and sequester carbon.
Water
Nature-Based Solutions
Using natural ecosystems to address societal challenges like climate change and flooding.