This paper examines the integration of "Blue Carbon Ecosystems" (BCEs) such as mangroves and salt marshes into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Inventory Reports (NIRs). While developing countries are increasingly including BCEs in their NDCs, reporting in NIRs remains insufficient. Only seven countries account for BCE, with mangroves being the most commonly included. Reporting among EU member states is even more scarce – with only France and Malta reporting on BCEs. The paper, aimed at policymakers and climate experts, emphasizes the need for increased knowledge transfer and further scientific research to improve BCE reporting.
Blue Carbon ecosystems, such as mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass meadows, play a vital role in climate mitigation by storing atmospheric CO₂ in their soils.This paper highlights the critical need to distinguish between autochthonous (locally fixed) and allochthonous (externally sourced) carbon to ensure accurate carbon accounting. It states, that the inclusion of allochthonous carbon may overstate climate benefits and lead to over-crediting in carbon markets. To preserve environmental integrity, a conservative accounting approach is recommended, alongside stronger collaboration between scientific research and project developers.
Coastal ecosystems, including mangroves, seagrass meadows and tidal marshes, function as natural carbon sinks, thereby playing a vital role in the global carbon cycle. These Blue Carbon ecosystems have been found to be effective carbon storage mechanisms, whilst also providing a habitat for biodiversity and enhancing coastal resilience.This factsheet provides a comprehensive overview of the relevant literature on the subject and the potential protection and restoration of coastal ecosystems has to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance climate adaptation. It highlights, that the integration of Blue Carbon into national inventories and international climate frameworks can strengthen ocean protection and contribute meaningfully to global climate action.
This publication explores the scientific dimensions of blue carbon (BC) for global climate mitigation. BC is defined and criteria for identifying BC measures are outlined based on a comprehensive analysis of current scientific literature. The potential of coastal ecosystems in mitigating climate change and their significance in shaping international climate policy are assessed, while evaluating the possibility of incorporating BC emissions and removals in national greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories. Evidence-based recommendations for integrating BC into robust climate strategies are presented, offering valuable insights for interested policy makers, researchers and climate advocates alike.