Pew to partner on coastal wetlands and coral reefs.
Coastal ecosystems such as mangroves and coral reefs play a vital role in helping coastal communities adapt to climate change and providing protection against storms. However, these habitats are facing severe threats. According to the Global Mangrove Alliance, half of the worlds mangroves have been
Coastal Wetlands and Coral Reef Protection in Climate Commitments
Coastal wetlands and coral reefs are key for climate resilience. But, they’re at risk – half of mangroves gone, a third of reefs lost. UN Paris Agreement urges emissions reduction and climate adaptation. Blue carbon ecosystems (seagrass, mangroves, salt marshes) can help. Pew started project in 2019 for wetlands and coral reef protection. Partnerships with local groups, research institutions, and governments in Belize, Costa Rica, and Seychelles led to ambitious commitments. Pew plans to expand efforts in Caribbean, Latin America, and Western Indian Ocean to aid wetlands conservation.
Mangroves and Wetlands: Key for Carbon Sequestration and Climate Change Mitigation
Mangroves and wetlands help mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon. Freshwater mangroves emit more methane than seawater mangroves. Preserving and restoring these ecosystems can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A study says mangroves and saltmarshes sequester carbon twice as effectively as previously believed. Mangroves capture and store carbon efficiently. Protecting wetlands and mangroves requires conservation efforts and involving local communities. Wetlands are disappearing due to agriculture and construction, but India is restoring them. Blue carbon ecosystems can significantly reduce emissions. A comprehensive approach including emission reduction, ecosystem restoration, and conservation is needed for effective climate change mitigation.
