Blue carbon projects, which involve the restoration and conservation of coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses, have a very high potential for carbon sequestration. Blue carbon ecosystems can sequester carbon at a rate of three to five times higher per hectare than terrestrial forests. For example, mangroves are excellent for storing carbon in their roots and surrounding sediments. In long-term storage, carbon stored in the blue carbon ecosystem’s sediments can remain trapped for thousands of years, making it a long-term carbon sequestration solution. In addition to carbon sequestration, these projects can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by preventing coastal ecosystems from degrading, which would otherwise release stored carbon into the atmosphere. Blue carbon projects also provide various ecological and socio-economic benefits, such as protecting coasts from erosion, conserving biodiversity, and improving the livelihoods of local communities. Thus, while blue carbon projects are a key solution for carbon sequestration, they are also essential to the resilience of coastal ecosystems and the well-being of local communities.
HOW IS THE EFFECTIVENESS OF BLUE CARBON PROJECTS VERIFIED?
Blue carbon projects are tested for efficiency using rigorous criteria and methods. This is done by specialized organizations and independent third parties in most cases. Here are some important aspects of quantifying effectiveness:
- Measurability: ecosystems that are restored or preserved measure sequestered carbon in their sediments, plants, and roots after restoration.
- Additionality: the reductions achieved by the project are additional and may not occur without the project.
- Permanence: long-term carbon storage without future exposure to disturbances.
- Co-benefits: Mini-environmental and social benefits associated with the protection of biodiversity, coastal erosion, and sustainable improvement of local livelihoods.
- Transparency and verification: projects must be transparent and regularly audited by an independent auditor to verify the results and ensure the credibility of the data.
WHO VERIFIES THE EFFECTIVENESS?
Effectiveness is often audited by accredited expert organizations and independent third parties, like AmSpec.
Key actors that verify effectiveness include organizations such as Verra, which certifies projects as meeting measurement and verification standards. Independent auditors can ensure regular audits of compliance with project standards and the accuracy of reported data.
AMSPEC SUSTAINABILITY SERVICES
AmSpec provides a variety of carbon accounting, GHG inventory, life cycle assessment, and verification services to the energy transition and sustainability markets. Contact us to learn more.