Blue Carbon

Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide to mitigate or defer climate change. In marine contexts, it involves storage in oceanic habitats like kelp forests and blue carbon ecosystems.

What is Blue Carbon?

Blue carbon refers to the carbon captured and stored in coastal and marine ecosystems, like mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes. These habitats are highly effective at sequestering carbon.

These ecosystems play a crucial role in climate change mitigation, biodiversity protection, and coastal resilience.

Why is it Called "Blue" Carbon?

The term “blue” refers to the fact that this carbon is captured and stored in ocean and coastal ecosystems, unlike “green” carbon, which comes from terrestrial forests and plants.

How Does Blue Carbon Help Fight Climate Change?

  1. Blue carbon ecosystems absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere through photosynthesis and store it in plant biomass and sediments.

  2. When preserved, these ecosystems prevent carbon from re-entering the atmosphere, reducing greenhouse gas levels.


Live Ocean Foundation is supporting Dr Caitlin Blain’s vital research into Blue Carbon to help accurately understand and quantify how much carbon is sequestered and for how long.   

What is the Role of Blue Carbon in Carbon Markets?

  • Some blue carbon projects generate carbon credits, allowing businesses and governments to invest in conservation while offsetting their emissions.

  • Verified projects can be included in national and corporate ESG strategies.

Can Blue Carbon Help Achieve Net-Zero Emissions?

While blue carbon alone can’t fully offset global emissions, it is a key nature-based solution that complements renewable energy, reforestation, and other climate strategies.

Are There International Efforts to Protect Blue Carbon?

Yes. Initiatives like:

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