SAL02: Blue Carbon: Exploring the Potential of Coastal Ecosystems for Climate Mitigation and the Bioeconomy

This challenge explores the vital role of ecosystems such as mangroves and seaweed in capturing CO₂ (‘blue carbon’). It seeks solutions to map, monitor and value these carbon sinks, integrating them into financing mechanisms and the sustainable bioeconomy. It aligns with Challenge 5 of the Ocean Decade: Unlocking ocean-based solutions to climate change and Challenge 2: Protecting and restoring ecosystems and biodiversity.