Blue Carbon Mapping in India

Summary of Blue Carbon Mapping Initiatives in India

The Indian government is enhancing its understanding of carbon sequestration in coastal ecosystems, particularly through blue carbon mapping initiatives focused on mangrove forests. These efforts are part of a broader environmental strategy aimed at combating climate change and preserving biodiversity.

• Assessment of Carbon Stocks: The Forest Survey of India (FSI), functioning under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), has executed a national-level assessment titled ‘Estimation of Carbon Stock in Mangrove Eco-system’.

• Geographical Coverage: This assessment covers all twelve states and Union Territories in India that host mangrove forests, ensuring comprehensive data collection across diverse ecological landscapes.

• Importance of Blue Carbon Data: The quantitative data from these assessments are crucial for:

  • Formulating strategies to enhance climate resilience.
  • Supporting carbon budgeting and reporting aligned with India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
  • Identifying priority areas for conservation to maintain essential ecosystem services provided by mangroves.

• Government Initiatives: The information gathered through these exercises underpins initiatives like the Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes (MISHTI). This scheme is a collaborative effort with coastal State governments and aims to:

  • Restore and promote mangrove ecosystems.
  • Ensure the sustainability of coastal habitats and communities.

• Ecosystem Services Provided by Mangroves: Healthy mangrove forests serve as natural bio-shields that protect coastal communities from climate-related hazards, thus safeguarding livelihoods and enhancing community resilience against natural disasters.

• Official Statement: This information was communicated by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for multiple departments, including Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, during a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.

This initiative and the supporting research underline India's commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action, aligning with global efforts to manage ecosystems effectively in the face of climate change impacts.

Key Points:

• The FSI's assessment of mangrove carbon stocks is pivotal for India’s climate strategies.
• Data aids in achieving the goals set forth in India’s NDCs.
• MISHTI scheme aims to restore and promote mangrove ecosystems.
• Healthy mangroves are essential for protecting coastal communities.
• The information was revealed during a parliamentary session, indicating governmental acknowledgment of environmental roles.