Utilising coastal blue carbon (CBC) to mitigate the climate crisis: Current status and future analysis of China

Climate change, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, poses a significant threat to life and livelihoods globally. China, the world's largest carbon emitter, yet has a significant area of coastal blue carbon (CBC) ecosystems covering mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass beds which are vital for carbon sequestration. This study assesses the current state of these ecosystems, evaluates Chinese policies for CBC conservation, appraise Chinese blue carbon (BC) market development and compares them with international efforts. The findings highlight inadequate conservation measures and a lack of specific laws and enforcement for BC protection in China. The BC market suffers from unclear responsibilities, dampening corporate participation. Recommendations include hastening legal frameworks, bolstering enforcement, defining BC rights and ownership, and involving the public in BC initiatives. A SWOT analysis underscores the need for urgent action to bolster China's CBC ecosystems and market development.