Blue Carbon for Green Growth: Economic Benefits of Coastal Ecosystems in Island States

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jbm.202509306

Author(s)

Yun Qian*

Affiliation(s)

University of Sanya, Sanya, Hainan, China *corresponding author

Abstract

Blue carbon ecosystems—particularly mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes—offer significant economic and environmental benefits to small island developing states (SIDS). By capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide, these ecosystems mitigate climate change while simultaneously providing economic opportunities through tourism, fisheries enhancement, and carbon market financing. This paper synthesizes existing literature and case studies from recent years (2021-2025) to evaluate the economic valuation, policy frameworks, and financial instruments enabling SIDS to harness blue carbon effectively. Empirical evidence from the Pacific Islands, Belize, and Seychelles underscores the transformative potential of integrating blue carbon strategies into sustainable economic development plans.

Keywords

Carbon Markets; Green Growth; Coastal Ecosystems; Economic Valuation; Blue Carbon

References

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