Exploring blue carbon research in India: current landscape and future avenues

Area of Science:

• Marine ecology
• Climate science
• Environmental management

Background:

• Coastal ecosystems like mangroves, seagrasses, and saltmarshes are critical for sequestering carbon dioxide, termed "coastal blue carbon."
• These ecosystems play a vital role in global climate change mitigation efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and quantify the blue carbon stocks within India's coastal ecosystems.
• To identify research gaps and regional disparities in blue carbon studies across India.
• To assess factors influencing carbon sequestration potential and recommend conservation strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and meta-analysis of existing studies on blue carbon in India.
• Spatial data analysis for estimating ecosystem coverage (mangroves, seagrasses, saltmarshes).
• Stable isotope analysis (δ13C and δ15N) for carbon source tracing and ecosystem dynamics.

Main Results:

• India's coastal ecosystems possess a total estimated blue carbon stock of 67.35 Tg C.
• Mangroves account for the vast majority of this stock (67 Tg C), with seagrasses and saltmarshes contributing significantly less.
• Extensive research exists for mangroves and seagrasses in specific regions, but significant knowledge gaps remain for other areas and saltmarshes.

Conclusions:

• Conservation and restoration of coastal blue carbon ecosystems are essential nature-based solutions for climate resilience.
• Policy frameworks must integrate blue carbon considerations to support sustainable development and climate change adaptation.
• Addressing research gaps and promoting integrated management are crucial for maximizing the climate mitigation potential of India's coastal ecosystems.