Seagrass meadows and mangrove forests: carbon storage and protection for coasts

Seagrass meadows and mangrove forests: carbon storage and protection for coasts

World Day of Oceans: Contributions of Mariner Ecosystems for CO2 storage and biodiversity

The importance of marine ecosystems for global climate protection and biological diversity is the focus of the world day of the oceans. New research results show that seaweed meadows, mangrove forests and salt marches make an enormous contribution to CO2 storage and at the same time secure the coasts and nutritional security of many people.

seaweed meadows that occur along almost all coasts can absorb and save up to 216 million tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere every year. A carbon spear of up to 22,000 million tons of carbon forms in the sea floor. Mangroven forests in the tropics and subtropics can also store large quantities of carbon, both in the biomass and in marine sediment. Salt marches in northern latitudes are also important carbon storage.

dr. Judith Reise, expert in carbon storage of natural ecosystems at the eco-institute, emphasizes the importance of this blue carbon ecosystems. Blue carbon refers to the carbon, which is absorbed and saved by marine organisms. The study by the eco-institute and the Leibniz Center for Marine Tropical Research shows the enormous potential of these habitats for global climate protection.

In addition to CO2 storage, the coastal ecosystems also contribute to securing biodiversity and nutrition. Many marine animals spend their youth in these habitats because they offer them protection. In addition, the functioning coastal zones serve as natural barriers against storm surges and thus contribute to the protection of the coastal cities.

The study, however, states that these vital ecosystems are currently at risk. Missmanagement and pollution lead to the destruction of coastal ecosystems. Aquacultures, fishing with towing networks and the introduction of fertilizers from agriculture endanger the coastal ecosystems and their carbon storage. The author of the study appeals to the states to include these important carbon doff stores in their greenhouse gas balance sheets and take measures to protect the coastal ecosystems.

The world day of the oceans draw attention to the importance of marine ecosystems for global climate protection and the preservation of biodiversity. It is important to recognize CO2 storage in seagrass meadows, mangrove forests and salt marches and take measures to protect these habitats. This is the only way we can reduce the effects of climate change and ensure the coasts and nutritional security of millions of people in the long term.