Mapping system detects blue carbon on coasts

MANILA, Philippines — Harnessing the power of satellite and laser mapping images, researchers from the University of the Philippines-Diliman have developed a web community-based tool to assess the presence of blue carbon in coastal areas. 

The Integrated Assessment and Modelling of Blue Carbon Ecosystems for Conservation and Adaptive Management (IAMBlueCECAM) project, led by Ariel Blanco of UP-Diliman, has produced an accurate and detailed mapping system of mangrove forests and seagrass habitats in selected pilot sites using remotely sensed data and ground-based measurements.

The mapping system could also assess or detect blue carbon ecosystem zonation, species composition and aboveground biomass presence. 

The Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), which provided the funds for the project, said that the mapping system can be used by local government units (LGUs), especially coastal cities and municipalities, to gather information on the extent of their mangroves and presence of species in the area that they can use for conservation and effective management. 

The UP Diliman project covered Coron, Busuanga and Puerto Princesa in Palawan, Ibajay, Batan and Kalibo in Aklan, and Banate Bay in Iloilo as pilot areas.

Blue carbon refers to the carbon captured and stored by the coastal ecosystems, specifically mangroves and seagrasses (also called carbon sinks), for millions of  years. 

When these ecosystems are degraded, they release the captured carbon back to the atmosphere, greatly contributing to climate change. It is thus beneficial to everyone that mangroves and seagrasses are conserved and protected. 

“Local governments need to recognize the importance of these blue carbon ecosystems. Its non-use was valued at over P35 million per hectare in Puerto Princesa, Palawan – 20 times higher than the use of its wood for fuel. We hope that this number alone can encourage our local communities and tourists to conserve these ecosystems given their value,” said Enrico Paringit, PCIEERD executive director. 

The valuation of the non-use of blue carbon ecosystems refers to the benefits received by the local community through the presence of these ecosystems.

Aside from being as blue carbon sinks, mangroves serve as habitat for marine species and protect the communities from the damaging effects brought about by strong winds, hurricanes, and big waves; while the seagrass beds serve as nursery for fishes and stabilize sea bottom against intense waves.