Mangrove-based blue carbon mapping in the Asia Pacific region

Brief

Continuous assessment of the mangrove blue carbon ecosystems in the AP region is vital due to its high potential to contribute as a Natural Climate Solution. This study was primarily designed to assess the current status of RS-based studies carried out in the AP region to measure the mangrove blue carbon and to evaluate the spatio-temporal dynamics of mangrove blue carbon.

Specific goals

Our primary goals were to perform a comprehensive review (1990-2023) and analysis of RS-based studies in AP region to assess the development of RS-based approaches to measure spatiotemporal dynamics of mangrove blue carbon (i.e., above ground biomass carbon), to measure spatiotemporal dynamics of mangrove blue carbon in AP region (at country level), and to assess how the mangrove blue carbon sequestration varies based on the species, age factor, type of ecosystem (planted and natural), and anthropogenic influences. Secondarily, the progress of conservation and restoration initiatives of blue carbon ecosystems as measured by RS were assessed. Finally, importance/threats of mangrove blue carbon ecosystems and current research gaps were evaluated to provide recommendations for the enhancement of mangrove blue carbon sequestration potential in the AP region.

Execution

Ecoresolve in collaboration with a diverse group of outstanding researchers conducted a comprehensive review and analysis of published remote sensing based studies from 1990 to 2023 in the AP region to achieve the aforementioned objectives.

Impact

We provide our recommendations based on the identified research gaps, threats, and importances to enhance the status of the mangrove blue carbon ecosystems in the AP region. Further, Ecoreslve emphasizes the benefits of the mangrove blue carbon, particularly in the mitigation and adaptation of climate change.