WWF- Pacific Pacific Blue Economy Conference 23 August, 2017 Blue Carbon- Reducing Climate Change Impacts by Conserving Coastal Ecosystems WWF- Pacific Pacific Blue Economy Conference 23 August, 2017

WWF’s Principles for a Sustainable Blue Economy Provides a scientifically based definition of a Sustainable Blue Economy Highlights the need to defining what isn’t a blue economy Founded on the premise that no economy can sustain itself when its natural resource base is systematically being degraded. Economic development related to oceans and the marine environment should arise from responsible and wise use of natural resources.

A sustainable Blue Economy is a marine based economy that: Provides social and economic benefits for current and future generations Restores, protects and maintains the diversity, productivity, resilience, core functions and intrinsic value of marine ecosystems [Zero Impact to positive restorative impact] Is based on clean technologies, renewable energy, and circular material flows

RECOGNISING THE ECONOMIC VALUE OF OUR OCEAN AND COASTAL MARINE AREAS NATIONALLY AND ACROSS THE PACIFIC REGION

BLUE CARBON “Aside from Coastal Ecosystems critical contribution to economies in the Pacific , these ecosystems (mangroves, sea-grass, marsh and intertidal areas are known blue carbon sinks as they transfer and store carbon in their sediments and within plant parts at rates far greater than terrestrial forests” Mangroves and Saltmarsh average between 6-8 tonnes of Co2 equivalent per hectare/year Sea-grass beds average at a rate of 4 tonnes of Co2 equivalent per hectare/year Tropical Forests averages between 1.8-2.7 tonnes of Co2 equivalent per hectare/year

International Biodivercities Conference Joondalup, 10 September 2013 Photo: Steve Crooks 17 May 2013

Points to Consider- Effectively managing our blue carbon reserves- eg mangrove protection sequesters carbon, provides breeding grounds for fisheries enabling food security and income and resiliency as natural coastal barriers. Apply Ecosystem Based approaches to Resource Management effectively linking the land and sea interface. Rights of local communities and their management capability must be recognized, be inclusive and be transparent and equitable with regard financial benefit generated. Blue Carbon National AND Regional Policies and Monitoring Reporting and Verification (MRV)

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