The Influence of Climate Change on Coastal Wetlands and Their Role in Carbon Sequestration | CBCGDF Climate Change Working Group

Coastal wetlands, including mangroves, marshes, and seagrass meadows, are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth, playing a critical role in carbon sequestration. Known as "blue carbon" ecosystems, they have the ability to store carbon at rates 10 times faster than tropical forests and can retain these carbon stores for thousands of years. However, climate change poses a significant threat to these vital habitats. Rising sea levels, exacerbated by the melting of polar ice caps, can lead to the loss of coastal wetlands through inundation and erosion. This loss not only diminishes their biodiversity but also reduces their capacity to sequester carbon.

Additionally, increased frequency and intensity of storms, driven by warmer ocean temperatures, can cause significant damage to these delicate ecosystems. The destruction of mangroves and marshes can release stored carbon back into the atmosphere, contributing to the very climate change that threatens them. Furthermore, ocean acidification, a result of increased carbon dioxide absorption by the seas, can harm seagrass meadows and coral reefs, further impacting carbon storage.

To protect these ecosystems, it is imperative to implement conservation strategies that include the restoration of degraded wetlands, the establishment of protected areas, and the promotion of sustainable land-use practices. By safeguarding coastal wetlands, we not only preserve their ecological functions but also enhance their role in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration.

 

Translator: Richard

Checked by Maggie

Editor: Richard

Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776


Contribution

Do you know? CBCGDF is a non-profit organization. We rely on crowd-funding and donations. You have the opportunity to help us to advance biodiversity conservation. Donate TODAY to power up the movement to make it a better world for all life.

 

1. Webpage:

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=2EYYJJZ8CGPLE

2. via paypal

Donation501C3Paypal intl@wbag.org

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Bridging Borders for Wildlife: John E. Scanlon AO Recognized with China's Highest Honor - Chinese Government Friendship Award

The 2024 World Water Forum Opens in Indonesia's Bali

Dr. FANG Jun, Secretary General of CBCGDF One Health Working Committee Leads the Construction of ESG System for the Medical Device Industry