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“Blue carbon” refers to the carbon linked to natural coastal and marine ecosystems. These ecosystems can aid in the mitigation of climate change by fixing and storing atmospheric carbon. Blue carbon ecosystems include tidal marshlands, mangrove forests, and seagrass meadows, all of which are not only naturally beautiful but also filter pollution, house fish nurseries and buffer shorelines against storms. The sustainable management of these ecosystems can improve livelihoods around while mitigating for climate change.


GRID-Arendal promotes the sustainable management of blue carbon ecosystems through harnessing the value of carbon and other ecosystem services to achieve change. We work internationally through partners and networks and support the UN Environment’s mission and Blue Carbon Initiative.


The areas we work in include the following:

  • Coastal blue carbon – Advancing science and global demonstration projects and incorporating the value of blue carbon in international treaties such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This activity includes a focus on capacity building in developing nations.
  • Oceanic blue carbon – Advancing the science exploring the role of marine life in climate mitigation.
  • Blue carbon communications – Increasing the global understanding of the value of blue carbon through multiple communication platforms and outreach activities.

Tags: seagrass climate change coastal ecosystems forests oceans

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