Chennai, 19 December (H.S.) : The State Environment and Climate Change Department has released a comprehensive study revealing that the coastal ecosystems of Tamil Nadu provide carbon sequestration benefits valued at approximately 127 million dollars annually.
Conducted in collaboration with the Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute in Thoothukudi between February and May 2024, the study focused on blue carbon stocks within the top one meter of soil across mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses. The findings indicate that the current coastal ecosystems hold a massive carbon stock of about 50,000 megagrams.
According to the official report (https://www.sdmri.in/recent-publications/), the seagrass ecosystem represents the most significant economic contributor, with carbon stocks worth over 97 million dollars. Salt marshes and mangroves follow, contributing values of 17 million dollars and nearly 13 million dollars, respectively.
However, authorities warned that the degradation of these vital habitats poses a severe financial risk. Experts noted that degraded seagrass ecosystems could result in an economic loss of 2,481 dollars per hectare due to the potential emission of hundreds of tonnes of carbon dioxide if the soil is oxidized.
Authorities have recommended large-scale restoration of these blue carbon ecosystems using viable protocols to counteract decades of severe loss. The department emphasized that climate change adaptation and mitigation measures must be continuously implemented as global climatic scenarios deteriorate.
Furthermore, officials highlighted the importance of providing education and capacity building for coastal communities to ensure sustainable conservation results.
The report concludes that restoration efforts not only protect the environment but also generate additional carbon value, making conservation a critical economic and ecological priority for the state.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary
