Advancing Blue Carbon Knowledge: Leveraging Geomatics for Capacity Building through the BlueCARES Project

Abstract. Mangrove forests and seagrass meadows, collectively termed as blue carbon ecosystems (BCEs), play a pivotal role in carbon sequestration and climate mitigation. Blue carbon research enables advancing scientific knowledge and gaining insights into their current state, which is crucial for making informed decisions on its conservation and management practices. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) launched the “Comprehensive Assessment and Conservation of Blue Carbon (BC) Ecosystems and their Services in the Coral Triangle” or BlueCARES to pioneer joint research on blue carbon ecosystems and formulate conservation strategies at local and national levels. BlueCARES aims to establish a robust Blue Carbon Strategy and initiate the establishment of the Blue Carbon Network (BCnet), convening various stakeholders, including government agencies, local government units, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations. BCnet organizes summits, workshops, and conferences to facilitate collaboration. Through capacity development initiatives, the project empowers stakeholders to actively engage in field surveys, conservation efforts, and the implementation of the Blue Carbon Strategy, even after the project concludes. This paper narrates the capacity-building engagements made by the Geomatics team, leveraging remote sensing and geospatial technologies to foster sustainable blue carbon management practices and ensure the long-term resilience of BCEs in the country.