Seagrass Meadows as Carbon Sequestration in Cambodia

Conceptualizing the Role of Seagrass Meadows in Carbon Sequestration and Climate Change Mitigation: A Case Study in Cambodia

Vincent BoonSeng LIM, Vincent@VincentLim.com 

Abstract

Seagrass meadows are pivotal components of blue carbon ecosystems, providing substantial potential for mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration. This paper delves into the capacity of Cambodian seagrass meadows to contribute to carbon reduction efforts and integrate into emerging carbon credit markets. By synthesizing existing literature and proposing a multidimensional framework, we explore the underutilized potential of these ecosystems for climate change mitigation in Cambodia. Furthermore, we identify key locations within Cambodia's seagrass meadows with untapped economic potential due to their carbon sequestration capabilities. Integrating these meadows into carbon credit markets could furnish innovative financial incentives for their conservation and restoration, aligning economic development with climate change mitigation objectives. However, realizing this potential requires addressing challenges such as accurately quantifying seagrass carbon storage, fostering sustainable management practices involving local communities, and adapting policy and regulatory frameworks. Ultimately, we advocate for the initiation of restoration projects to promote sustainable development and enhance climate resilience.

1. Introduction

Seagrass meadows are increasingly recognized as a critical natural asset for mitigating climate change due to their significant carbon sequestration potential. This paper aims to explore the capacity of Cambodian seagrass meadows, which are both valuable and threatened, to contribute to carbon reduction efforts and integrate into emerging carbon trading mechanisms. By investigating the ecological and economic benefits of these ecosystems, this paper seeks to evaluate the feasibility and implications of incorporating them into carbon markets. Through this examination, it aims to deepen our understanding of blue carbon initiatives and their role in fostering sustainable development and climate resilience, particularly in regions like Cambodia with abundant marine biodiversity.

2. Methodology

The investigation presented in this paper employed a comprehensive approach to assess the carbon sequestration capabilities of seagrass ecosystems within the Cambodian context. This approach encompassed engaging in diverse discussions with key local stakeholders, including farmers, residents, and a representative from Cambodian government agencies. Furthermore, economic assessments were integrated into these stakeholder dialogues to evaluate the intrinsic value of seagrass meadows and carbon offset credits. Additionally, the paper thoroughly examined existing research on seagrass restoration and reviewed data from previous research, including remote-sensing studies, to identify potential project sites. Through the utilization of these interdisciplinary methodologies, the paper aimed to cultivate a more nuanced understanding of the ecological and economic significance of seagrass ecosystems in the realm of climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.

3. Literature Review

3.1 Seagrass’ Ecological Significance

Seagrass meadows are crucial to coastal ecosystems, providing habitats for diverse marine life, stabilising sediments, reducing wave energy, and contributing to nutrient cycling (Maabuat et al., 2023; Fusi & Daffonchio, 2019). Their sensitivity to water quality changes makes them valuable bioindicators, emphasising the need for protection and restoration to maintain ecological balance and resilience (Ramesh & Mohanraju, 2021).

The United Nations Environment Programme’s World Conservation Monitoring Centre has a comprehensive mapping of seagrass worldwide, including Cambodia. Although the data has not been updated since 2015, the focus shows the importance of seagrass in the ecological system. (UNEP-WCMC, 2017)

Seagrass ecosystems are significant carbon sinks, sequestering carbon at rates comparable to terrestrial forests (Hejnowicz et al., 2015). This positions them as a key component in blue carbon initiatives and payment for ecosystem service schemes, offering a pathway to combat climate change and improve livelihoods.

Seagrass transplantation and domestication have been successful in maintaining seagrass ecosystems and engaging communities in conservation (Karlina et al., 2018; van Katwijk et al., 2016). Projects like the one in Pengudang Village, Bintan, demonstrate the potential for seagrass mariculture to provide seeds for large-scale restoration.

Innovations such as artificial seagrass and bio-containers made from seagrass wrack and bio-based polymers have shown promise in promoting positive feedback mechanisms in seagrass restoration, particularly in harsh environments (Carus et al., 2022; Balestri et al., 2021).

Despite these advances, seagrass ecosystems face threats from pollution, coastal development, climate change, and biotic factors (Darus et al., 2022; Orth et al., 2006). These challenges underscore the urgent need for global conservation efforts, public awareness, and sustainable management practices.

3.2 Seagrass in Cambodia

While research on seagrass in Cambodia is limited, its general importance in Cambodian agriculture has been noted (Sereywath & Sokhannaro, 2003), (Sudo et al., 2021), (Leng et al., 2014). 

Research acknowledges the crucial role of seagrass meadows in supporting biodiversity, providing ecosystem services, and protecting coastal areas globally (Agawin & Duarte, 2002). These benefits likely extend to Cambodian waters, highlighting the need for conservation and sustainable management.

The potential impact of conservation agriculture on Cambodian seagrass ecosystems has been raised suggesting an area for further investigation into the intersection of terrestrial agriculture and marine conservation.

Efforts to map seagrass beds around Koh Tonsay and Koh Rong Islands using satellite images indicate an interest in understanding the extent of these habitats for future management and conservation (UNEP-WCMC, 2017), (Leng et al., 2014). This represents a foundational step towards recognising and preserving the ecological functions of seagrass in Cambodia.

3.3 Carbon Sinks and Seagrass Meadows 

Oceans and terrestrial plants act as natural sinks, absorbing anthropogenic CO2. Research indicates that the ocean has absorbed 23% to 27% of anthropogenic CO2 emissions since the industrial revolution (Sarmiento & Gruber, 2002; Gruber et al., 2019). While recent studies show variations in results, the ocean remains a significant carbon sink (Gruber et al., 2023).

Seagrass meadows are highly productive habitats, sequestering carbon at rates exceeding many terrestrial forests. This is achieved through photosynthesis, where carbon dioxide is converted into organic matter stored in the plant and sediment. Estimates suggest seagrass meadows can bury 48 to 112 Tg of carbon annually (Kennedy et al., 2010), highlighting their potential as natural carbon sequestration areas. Leveraging this potential could play a crucial role in Cambodia's climate change mitigation efforts.

3.4 Restoration of seagrass through transplanting shoots and seeds

Transplanting seagrass shoots and seeds emerges as a promising method for rehabilitating degraded seagrass meadows and augmenting existing ones. This technique entails the careful collection of robust shoots or seeds from healthy donor meadows, followed by their transplantation to recipient sites boasting favorable environmental conditions. The success of such transplantation endeavors hinges upon meticulous considerations of factors such as species compatibility, site appropriateness, and planting methodologies, as evidenced by numerous successful restoration initiatives (Fonseca, 1998). Research findings indicate that the transplantation of both shoots and seeds can effectively establish new seagrass meadows and bolster carbon sequestration efforts (Agawin & Duarte, 2002; van Katwijk et al., 2016). One of the seagrass restoration projects confirmed that at an optimal density, carbon accumulation can be 177–1337 t CO2 ha−1 after 50 years (Duarte et al., 2013c). Furthermore, community-driven seagrass transplantation endeavors have illustrated the potential for engaging local stakeholders in conservation endeavors and fostering the adoption of sustainable management practices (Karlina et al., 2018).

3. Selection of Suitable Locations

Given Cambodia's expansive coastline and diverse marine habitats, identifying suitable areas for seagrass meadows requires careful consideration. Identifying suitable areas for seagrass meadows in Cambodia necessitates consideration of several factors. Primarily, regions characterized by shallow, clear waters that facilitate sunlight penetration are conducive to seagrass growth. Additionally, factors such as water quality, seabed composition, and the absence of disruptive activities like heavy fishing or pollution play pivotal roles.

Based on these criteria and discussions with local stakeholders, several coastal areas and islands in Cambodia hold promise for supporting seagrass ecosystems:

1. Koh Rong Samloem: Notably, this location hosts extensive seagrass habitat, encompassing approximately 18 hectares. Four species are particularly common and suitable: Halodule pinifolia, Thalassia hemprichii, Enhalus acoroides and Halophila minor, with Halodule pinifolia being the most common (Leng et al., 2014). Sheltered bays such as Saracen Bay offer protected areas conducive to seagrass proliferation.

2. Koh Tang: Renowned for its clear waters and significant coral reefs, Koh Tang presents a suitable location for undisturbed seagrass meadows, contributing to its ecological diversity.

3. Koh Seh: Situated in Kep Province and recognized for its marine conservation efforts, Koh Seh and its surrounding waters hold potential for supporting seagrass ecosystems, benefitting from existing conservation initiatives.

4. Koh Sdach (King Island): Nestled within the Koh Kong province, Koh Sdach and its surrounding islands boast varied habitats, suggesting potential for diverse seagrass ecosystems that serve multiple ecological functions.

5. Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island): Located near Kep, this island is known for its clear waters and diverse marine life. Its proximity to the mainland and existing tourism infrastructure could make it a suitable location for a pilot restoration project, potentially raising awareness among visitors about seagrass conservation. Waters here are suitable for at least eight species, Enhalus acoroides, Thalassia hemprichii, Halophila minor, Halophila ovalis, Syringodium isoetifolium, Halodule pinifolia, Halodule uninervis, and Cymodocea serrulata (Phauk et al., 2012).

Additionally, other potential suitable locations include the Koh S' Dach Archipelago, Koh Kapik and Surrounding Islands, Kep Archipelago, Kampong Som Bay, Koh Thmei, and Koh Totang. These areas, characterized by their clear waters, diverse marine life, and minimal human impact, represent prime candidates for further exploration and conservation efforts.

By identifying and prioritizing these suitable locations, conservation initiatives can focus resources and efforts on preserving and restoring Cambodia's invaluable seagrass ecosystems, thereby enhancing biodiversity conservation and contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.

4. Selection of suitable species

To initiate the project, the first step involves mapping existing seagrass beds, conducting assessments of their health and biodiversity, and identifying potential threats. It's crucial to recognize that different seagrass species exhibit varying capacities for carbon storage, emphasizing the importance of understanding the species composition in the target location.

Previous research conducted near Koh Rong indicates the presence of several thriving species, including Halodule pinifolia, Thalassia hemprichii, Enhalus acoroides, and Halophila minor, with Halodule pinifolia dominating the area (Leng et al., 2014).

Similarly, research near Koh Tonsay has revealed a diverse array of species belonging to Hydrocharitaceae (Enhalus acoroides, Thalassia hemprichii, Halophila minor, and Halophila ovalis) and Cymodoceaceae (Syringodium isoetifolium, Halodule pinifolia, Halodule uninervis, and Cymodocea serrulata), with Cymodocea serrulata emerging as the dominant species and Thalassia hemprichii as the sub-dominant species (Phauk et al., 2012).

These findings underscore the importance of site-specific assessments and the need to avoid generalizations when selecting species for restoration efforts. A comprehensive understanding of the species composition in the target location is essential for effective conservation and restoration strategies.

5. Stakeholders Engagement

Collaborating with both local communities and government agencies, alongside garnering national and international support, is paramount for the sustainable management and protection of Cambodia's marine biodiversity. This entails educating stakeholders about the significance of seagrass meadows, the imperative of their conservation, and the potential benefits of restoration initiatives.

5.1 Engagement with Local Communities

Community engagement initiatives should underscore the multifaceted benefits of seagrass conservation, extending beyond ecological considerations to encompass a spectrum of economic advantages. By highlighting the role of seagrass ecosystems in bolstering fish stocks and facilitating ecotourism opportunities, local stakeholders can be empowered to perceive seagrass conservation as a vehicle for socioeconomic advancement. Enhanced fish populations within seagrass habitats not only serve as a vital food source but also contribute to livelihood security for fishing communities reliant on marine resources. Moreover, the allure of pristine seagrass meadows as ecotourism attractions can generate additional income streams for coastal communities, promoting economic diversification and resilience. By fostering a sense of ownership and stewardship among local residents, community-based seagrass conservation efforts can lay the groundwork for long-term sustainability, ensuring the continued prosperity of both ecosystems and human communities alike.

5.2 Engagement with Local Authorities

Engagement efforts targeted at local government agencies should emphasize the multifaceted benefits of seagrass conservation. Highlighting the role of seagrass ecosystems as significant carbon sinks can underscore their contribution to mitigating climate change. Moreover, elucidating the potential for the development of carbon credit markets associated with seagrass conservation can incentivize local authorities to prioritize protective measures and sustainable management practices for these vital habitats.

5.3 Advocacy for Policy Implementation

Engagement with Cambodian authorities can also be useful in integrating seagrass restoration into national climate strategies as it contributes to Cambodia's work towards global carbon reduction targets. By acknowledging seagrass ecosystems as invaluable carbon sinks and instituting incentives for their preservation, Cambodia can seamlessly integrate these habitats into its national climate policies. Moreover, at the international level, Cambodia can leverage its commitment to seagrass conservation to fulfill its obligations under the Paris Agreement, potentially accessing vital financial and technical support for blue carbon projects.

Aligning seagrass conservation efforts with national climate policies offers Cambodia a dual benefit: amplifying its impact on climate change mitigation while simultaneously fortifying biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. To strengthen these endeavors, policies that incentivize sustainable management practices and allocate funding for research and monitoring initiatives are imperative.

Furthermore, fostering international collaboration and knowledge-sharing platforms can facilitate the exchange of best practices and innovative approaches in seagrass conservation and carbon sequestration. Through engagement with global partners, Cambodia can leverage expertise and resources to expedite progress towards its climate and conservation objectives.

6. Measurement Techniques

Accurate measurement of seagrass meadows is paramount for the success of the projects but also for the future integration into carbon credit markets. Leveraging advanced technologies for measurement can significantly improve the efficacy of such efforts. For instance, past research has demonstrated the effectiveness of tools like the ALOS AVNIR-2 satellite and high-resolution remote sensing in mapping and monitoring seagrass extent, density, and health (Noiraksar et al., 2014). Past research also found the use of drones as a good alternative for spatial assessment of seagrass meadows, as exemplified by the study of Duffy et al. (2018). The paper evaluated both tools with local stakeholders.

5.1 Satellite Measurements

Advantages of Satellite Measurements are 1) Wide coverage area: Satellites capture large seagrass habitats in a single pass, allowing for comprehensive monitoring of the islands in Cambodia, especially islands far away from the mainland, such as Koh Tang. 2) Regular monitoring: Satellites regularly monitor seagrass meadows at predetermined intervals, providing valuable data for long-term analysis and trend identification. 3) Remote sensing capabilities: Satellite-based remote sensing can detect changes in seagrass extent, density, and health, facilitating timely interventions and management decisions.

However, disadvantages are 1) Limited spatial resolution: Satellite imagery may lack the resolution needed to capture fine-scale features and variations within seagrass habitats. 2) Cost: While some data are free to download, acquiring and processing customised satellite imagery entails significant costs, particularly for high-resolution datasets.

5.2 Drone Measurement

Advantages of Drone Measurements are 1) High spatial resolution: Drones offer the capability to capture detailed imagery with high spatial resolution, enabling precise mapping of seagrass meadows and finer-scale analysis. 2) Flexibility: Drones can be deployed flexibly to specific locations of interest, allowing for targeted data collection and tailored monitoring efforts. 3) Real-time data acquisition: Drones provide real-time access to imagery and data, enabling immediate assessment and response to changing environmental conditions.

Disadvantages of Drone Measurements are 1) Limited coverage area: Drones have restricted flight ranges and battery life, limiting their coverage area compared to satellites. 2) Operational constraints: Operating drone requires hiring of trained personnel and long term operations require local authorities’ agreement.

Based on local stakeholders’ suggestions, the project could begin with drone-based measurements to generate sufficient datasets for monitoring small-scale implementation, then combine it with satellite measurements with ground-truthing and field surveys of larger-scale implementation. The tools are useful for verifying carbon storage and sequestration rates. Integrating machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence further enhances data analysis capabilities, enabling detecting subtle changes in seagrass habitats over time. This approach facilitates adaptive management strategies to ensure successful implementation.

7. Next Steps

The project's next steps are crucial for its successful implementation and impact. As of May 2024, the project has established partnerships with various stakeholders. Building on significant interest and momentum from government agencies and local communities in Cambodia, the paper urges partnership with an experienced restoration company and proceeding with below steps.

7.1 Conducting Comprehensive Field Surveys 

Detailed assessments of potential seagrass sites will be undertaken to gather precise data on seagrass distribution, species composition, and carbon storage potential. These surveys will provide critical information to guide conservation and restoration activities.

7.2 Implement Pilot Restorations

Small-scale restoration projects will be implemented to test and refine transplantation techniques, assess the effectiveness of different restoration approaches, and monitor carbon sequestration rates. These pilot projects will serve as models for larger-scale restoration efforts.

7.3 Establishing a Monitoring and Evaluation Framework

A comprehensive system for monitoring seagrass health, carbon storage, and socioeconomic impacts will be established. This framework will ensure transparency, accountability, and adaptive management of conservation and restoration efforts.

7.4 Fostering Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange

Continued collaboration with local communities, government agencies, and international partners is essential for sharing knowledge, building capacity, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of seagrass conservation and restoration initiatives.

7.5 Exploring Carbon Credit Market Opportunities

The project will investigate the feasibility of integrating Cambodian seagrass meadows into carbon credit markets. This exploration will explore the potential for generating revenue streams to support conservation and restoration activities.

By implementing these next steps, the project aims to catalyze transformative change in seagrass conservation and restoration in Cambodia. Through collaborative efforts and innovative approaches, the project seeks to maximize the ecological, economic, and social benefits of seagrass ecosystems for current and future generations.

8. Conclusion

Seagrass meadows in Cambodia represent a critical yet underexploited asset in the fight against climate change. By serving as efficient carbon sinks, these ecosystems offer a natural solution to carbon sequestration that complements reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. However, realizing their full potential requires a comprehensive approach that includes protection, restoration, scientific research, community engagement, and supportive policies. As the global community seeks sustainable pathways to mitigate climate change, the proposed conservation and restoration project outlined in this paper signifies a significant step in the right direction. 

Furthermore, by fostering collaboration between local stakeholders, government agencies, and international partners, the project seeks to build a coalition committed to the long-term sustainability of seagrass ecosystems in Cambodia. This collaborative approach emphasizes the importance of community engagement and capacity building, ensuring that conservation efforts are rooted in local knowledge and supported by robust scientific evidence.

Overall, the proposed project is promising to enhance climate resilience and promote sustainable development in Cambodia. 

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