Indonesia | Preparing 17 Locations Designated as Blue Carbon Reserves

Indonesia, through the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is preparing 17 locations designated as Specific Strategic Areas (KSTN) according to Vietnam News Agency VNA.

These sites designated as blue carbon reserves are Specific National Strategic Areas (KSNT) located in Indonesia's northern coasts of Central Java and East Java, which include vital ecosystems like mangroves, seaweed, and tidal swamps that are among the most efficient natural carbon sinks, capable of sequestering carbon at rates 10 times greater than mature tropical forests.

According to scientists, seaweed or macroscopic marine algae, vital ocean plants that provide essential habitats, produce oxygen, absorb carbon, and help prevent erosion, can retain up to 82.000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per square kilometres, opening up opportunities for Indonesia to enter the international carbon market.

These selected locations are prioritized for their significant carbon absorption potential and contribution to protecting coastal ecosystems and communities from climate change impacts and these habitats also provide essential benefits such as biodiversity protection, food security, and natural defenses against coastal flooding, erosion, and storms.

Director General of Marine Spatial Planning Kartika Listriana, said that this initiative reflects the country’s commitment to nature conservation and this strategic approach  aims to ensure robust conservation and improve the welfare of coastal communities by supporting sustainable economic activities linked to marine resources. 

The project will also be integrated with the development of large coastal agglomerations, including the Greater Jakarta, and other sites in East and Central Java, and there are plans to create carbon - neutral islands in Bangka Belitung islands, an Indonesian province off the east coast of Sumatra.

Link 

https://tvbrics.com/en/news/indonesian-authorities-to-create-blue-carbon-reserves/