Coastal Wetland Restoration Can Now Earn Carbon Credits Globally
A new methodology to encourage coastal restoration across the globe has been approved by the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS). The Methodology for Tidal Wetland and Seagrass Restoration (VM0033) is the first globally applicable greenhouse gas accounting methodology for coastal wetland restoration, and will allow salt marsh, seagrass, mangrove, and other tidal wetland restoration projects to earn carbon credits.
Coastal wetlands (salt marsh, seagrass, mangroves, forested and other tidal wetlands) are some of the most productive habitats in the world. In addition to blue carbon soil providing critical fish habitat, improving water quality, and protecting the coastline from storms, coastal wetlands also remove large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere via photosynthesis. This carbon (referred to as “blue carbon”) is then stored in the ground, where it can remain for centuries or more, as long as the habitat is not degraded or destroyed.
However, development pressures, polluted runoff and sea-level rise has caused the loss of 50% of U.S. wetlands since the 1800s. Globally, coastal wetland loss is estimated to be between 0.7-2% per year, and restoration projects are largely underfunded, despite the myriad of benefits these habitats provide. As coastal habitat is destroyed, the carbon stored in its soil can be emitted back into the atmosphere, contributing to global climate change.
This landmark methodology provides the procedures for how to calculate, report, and verify greenhouse gas reductions for tidal wetland restoration projects anywhere in the world. Now, projects such as removing tidal barriers, improving water quality to increase seagrass habitat, beneficial use of dredged material, and re-introducing native plant communities will be eligible to earn carbon credits on the voluntary carbon market, generating new sources of funding.
“As communities around the country become more vulnerable to extreme weather- and climate-related events, NOAA and our partners are working to provide the products and services people need to build resilience,” said Holly Bamford, Ph.D., assistant NOAA administrator for the National Ocean Service performing duties of the assistant secretary of commerce for conservation and management. “Restoring coastal wetlands makes sense for communities, for climate mitigation, and for resilience efforts around the world.”
"The damaging effects of climate change are particularly
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