India boasts 7,500 km of coastline, rich in mangroves, seagrasses, and tidal marshes, yet these ecosystems—collectively known as blue carbon sinks—remain largely ignored in India’s carbon market strategies. While the country pushes forward with forest and energy-based carbon credits, its coastal carbon capture potential is left untapped. Recognizing and integrating blue carbon can enhance India’s climate resilience and unlock new carbon finance pathways.
What is Blue Carbon?
Blue carbon refers to the carbon captured by marine and coastal ecosystems like:
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Mangroves
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Seagrasses
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Salt marshes
These ecosystems absorb carbon dioxide up to 10 times faster than forests, store it in biomass and sediment for centuries, and protect coastlines from erosion and sea-level rise.
India’s Coastal Wealth: A Neglected Climate Asset
🔹 Mangroves in India
India is home to the fourth-largest area of mangroves globally, especially in states like West Bengal, Gujarat, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh. However, carbon credit mechanisms currently focus on terrestrial forests under schemes like the Green India Mission or REDD+, excluding coastal ecosystems.
🔹 Blue Carbon's Potential
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Carbon sequestration rate: ~6–8 million tons of CO₂ annually
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Economic value: Could be monetized through blue carbon credits
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Disaster resilience: Acts as a natural barrier against cyclones and floods
Why Blue Carbon Should Be in India’s Carbon Market
1. Climate Mitigation
Blue carbon ecosystems store vast amounts of carbon, both above and below ground. Protecting and restoring them could help meet India’s net-zero goals by 2070.
2. Carbon Credits & Finance
Internationally, blue carbon projects are attracting climate finance and carbon buyers. Including them in India’s voluntary carbon market could:
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Diversify project portfolios
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Engage coastal communities in sustainable practices
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Attract foreign investment
3. Biodiversity & Livelihoods
Restoring mangroves boosts fisheries, biodiversity, and supports local livelihoods—adding social and ecological value to carbon finance projects.
Global Examples of Blue Carbon Integration
🔸 Kenya
Began issuing blue carbon credits through mangrove restoration via the Mikoko Pamoja project.
🔸 Indonesia
Included mangroves in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and developed a blue carbon roadmap.
🔸 UAE
Launched blue carbon projects to offset emissions ahead of COP28, setting a strong example for coastal nations.
Barriers to Implementation in India
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Lack of Policy Framework
India’s carbon market does not currently recognize blue carbon in its trading mechanisms. -
Scientific and Technical Gaps
Mapping and monitoring blue carbon ecosystems require advanced tools and standardized protocols. -
Limited Awareness and Capacity
Local communities and decision-makers often lack training and awareness of the carbon value of coastal ecosystems.
Policy Recommendations
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Include Blue Carbon in National Carbon Market Guidelines
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Develop standardized measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) protocols for coastal carbon projects.
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Support pilot projects in blue carbon restoration to build technical and community capacity.
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Foster international partnerships to attract funding and technical expertise.
Conclusion: A Coastal Shift for Climate Leadership
India’s coastal ecosystems are a sleeping giant in the fight against climate change. By integrating blue carbon into its carbon market framework, India can lead by example in nature-based solutions, empower coastal communities, and close the carbon financing gap. Now is the time for India to look toward its shores—not just its forests—for sustainable climate action.
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