Phase III – The feasibility of mangrove REDD projects in the Western Indian Ocean: Linking mangrove conservation and climate change adaptation to the global carbon markets

Blue Ventures, in tandem with a dedicated team of researchers and conservationists, initiated a pivotal project focused on assessing the feasibility of REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation) for mangrove ecosystems in the Western Indian Ocean, with a particular emphasis on Madagascar’s rich mangrove forests. Boasting an estimated 213,000 hectares of mangrove ecosystems along its western coastline, Madagascar is endowed with a significant reservoir of blue carbon, crucial for mitigating global climate change. However, these valuable ecosystems face persistent threats from activities such as charcoal production, agricultural expansion, and natural disturbances, leading to significant carbon emissions.

The project’s overarching goal was to quantify net CO2 sequestration in mangrove forests and establish these ecosystems as viable funding sources in international carbon markets. The research embodied five specific objectives: contributing to the development of REDD methodologies tailored for mangroves, building local capacity for ecological and carbon stock assessments, demonstrating the climate mitigation potential of Malagasy mangroves, evaluating the feasibility of REDD+ projects in the region, and catalyzing the initiation of an actual mangrove REDD+ project.

To achieve these objectives, the project adopted a multi-faceted methodology that involved the analysis of satellite imagery for historical land-use dynamics, participatory rural appraisals to ascertain deforestation drivers, and the establishment of carbon measurement plots to estimate both above- and below-ground carbon stocks. Field surveys advanced local capacity building, equipping Malagasy teams with essential skills in carbon stock assessment and ecological evaluation methodologies.

Key achievements of the project include a comprehensive analysis of mangrove dynamics over two decades, establishing a localized mapping protocol that enhanced the accuracy of assessing mangrove types and conditions while uncovering significant carbon densities in Madagascar’s mangrove soils. The project successfully trained and supported over a dozen local staff and students, who gained hands-on experience in ecological research and carbon accounting practices, including students from the Université d’Antananarivo and Université de Toliara.

In addition to its research and training components, the project has led to several publications that contribute to the global discourse on blue carbon and mangrove conservation. Notable outputs include research letters on mangrove mapping and carbon stock inventories in specific Malagasy locations, comparisons of classification approaches, and a national-level analysis of Madagascar’s mangrove dynamics. These publications help to disseminate the findings at both national and international conferences, such as the Eyes on the Earth Summit and various specialized workshops on forest carbon assessment.

Despite these successes, the project also faced various challenges, including the complexity of accurately mapping mangrove degradation and the ongoing need for detailed socioeconomic research to inform conservation strategies. Moreover, the advancement of standardized REDD methodologies specific to mangroves remains a crucial barrier to broader implementation. These challenges highlight the necessity for continued scientific inquiry and methodological innovation to effectively capture the unique characteristics of mangroves.

Looking ahead, the project’s impact transcends immediate carbon storage assessments, establishing a solid foundation for future collaborations aimed at developing mangrove REDD+ projects in Madagascar. Further research is imperative to refine methodologies and create robust carbon accounting models, underscoring the need for tailored approaches to engage with the unique ecological dynamics of mangroves. By integrating mangroves into the global climate change framework, Blue Ventures and its partners have laid the groundwork for their inclusion in national and international climate policies, promoting investment in sustainable coastal management practices.

Publications resulting from the project reflect its depth and significance within the realm of blue carbon research. The collaborative nature of the program suggests varied engagement with funding opportunities, ensuring ongoing research, capacity building, and community empowerment initiatives within the Malagasy context. The investment in local students and researchers not only supports individual growth but also contributes to the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of mangrove conservation efforts in Madagascar.