Utilising coastal blue carbon to mitigate the climate crisis in China

What is it about?

Climate change, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, poses a significant threat to life and livelihoods globally. China, the world's largest carbon emitter, yet has a significant area of coastal blue carbon (CBC) ecosystems covering mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass beds which are vital for carbon sequestration. This study assesses the current state of these ecosystems, evaluates Chinese policies for CBC conservation, appraise Chinese blue carbon (BC) market development and compares them with international efforts. The findings highlight inadequate conservation measures and a lack of specific laws and enforcement for BC protection in China. The BC market suffers from unclear responsibilities, dampening corporate participation. Recommendations include hastening legal frameworks, bolstering enforcement, defining BC rights and ownership, and involving the public in BC initiatives. A SWOT analysis underscores the need for urgent action to bolster China's CBC ecosystems and market development.

Featured Image

Photo by Colin Watts on Unsplash

Photo by Colin Watts on Unsplash

Why is it important?

• Public involvement is crucial for enhancing China's CBC ecosystems. • Diversifying products is key to expanding China's BC market. • Urgent reforms are imperative to enhance BC standards, laws, and oversight. • BC communication platforms are essential for future research in China.

Perspectives