Evaluation of Carbon Sequestration in the Mangroves of the Baixada Santista in Different Conservation Contexts

• Grant number: 24/07436-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2024
• End date: July 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Ecology - Ecosystems Ecology
• Principal Investigator: Débora Martins de Freitas
• Grantee: Brenda Silva dos Reis
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB-CLP). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus Experimental do Litoral Paulista. São Vicente , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The capture and storage of carbon by coastal and marine ecosystems, known as blue carbon, plays a key role in the context of climate change, with mangroves standing out as important carbon sinks. Mangroves border low-latitude coastal areas, with fauna and flora resilient and adaptable to daily tidal changes, brackish water environments, and varying levels of anoxia. Brazil has one of the largest coastal areas in the world and the second largest mangrove forest in a single country. However, the degradation of these ecosystems can accelerate climate change. Despite Brazil's significant potential for carbon storage and sequestration, coastal ecosystems are not adequately considered in national policies and international agreements. Focusing on the southeastern region of Brazil, there are mangroves along almost the entire coastal area of São Paulo, specifically in the Baixada Santista, but only 40% of this area is protected. The lack of representation of coastal ecosystems within conservation units opens the door to socio-economic disruptions and loss of ecosystem services provided by mangroves. In this context, this project aims to model and analyze the rate of carbon sequestration and accumulation above ground in the mangroves of the Baixada Santista Metropolitan Region (RMBS), determining if there is a substantial difference in the performance of vegetation found inside and outside conservation units considering the different degrees of anthropogenic pressures. The study area covers nine coastal municipalities, notably affected by urbanization and industrial activity. The methodology includes literature review, mapping of mangrove areas inside and outside conservation units, and constant dialogue with public managers. The InVEST Coastal Blue Carbon model will be used to estimate carbon emissions and sequestration, considering two management scenarios. Expected results include identifying priority areas for conservation and providing information to support public policy initiatives for the protection of mangrove forests and reforestation, aiming at both the well-being of local communities and the preservation of biodiversity.