Seagrass

Under shallow water, lie seagrass meadows. This ecosystem sequesters carbon, acts as a nursery habitat for marine species, and protects the coast from erosion. Yet, these benefits go largely unrecognised.

We’re working to change that.

The biology of seagrass

Seagrass is the only marine flowering plant.

Similar in structure to terrestrial grass, seagrass is composed of leaf blades, a stem, and roots. Its anatomy enables to capture of CO2 through the leaf blades and its long-term storage via the roots. The leaf blades convert carbon from the atmosphere into biomass through photosynthesis. The stored carbon is released when seagrass is damaged.

Threats to seagrass

One of the biggest threats to seagrass is damage by fishing activities. Certain types of nets and anchors can permanently damage seagrass. This damage releases the stored carbon back into the ocean and atmosphere, contributing to climate change. This damage also degrades a crucial ecosystem and resources for both fish and local communities.

We have developed a guide for communities

based on our experiences of community-based mangrove and seagrass conservation alongside the United Nations Environment Programme and other colleagues!

Available here!