Unlocking the Ocean’s Potential: Insights on Blue Carbon and Marine Renewable Energy

Introduction

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As a 22-year-old marine biology student from the Wirral, I have always had a deep-rooted passion for everything underwater. This passion led me to embark on an enriching internship as a data analyst at Arete Zero Carbon in Liverpool. During my time there, I had the privilege of working closely with leaders of multinational companies and contributing to their ambitious carbon reduction projects. This experience not only exposed me to the complexities of environmental sustainability but also bestowed upon me a significant level of responsibility in overseeing various aspects of these projects. Through this document, I aim to shed light on two potentially crucial components of our sustainable future, which I find truly fascinating: Blue Carbon and Marine Renewable Energy.

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Blue Carbon

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Blue Carbon refers to the carbon stored in coastal and marine ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes. These ecosystems play a vital role in mitigating climate change by efficiently capturing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. So much so, that seagrass meadows, although accounting for less than 0.1% of the ocean floor, account for between 10% and 18% of the global ocean carbon storage [1]. Additionally, Blue Carbon ecosystems provide numerous co-benefits, including coastal protection, habitat for marine life, and support for fisheries.

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One notable initiative in this field is Project Seagrass, an organization at the forefront of Blue Carbon conservation [2].Operating extensively in North Wales, Project Seagrass actively works to restore and protect seagrass meadows, which are critical Blue Carbon reservoirs. By conducting research, raising awareness, and engaging local communities, Project Seagrass contributes significantly to the preservation of coastal ecosystems and the mitigation of climate change.

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Furthermore, the High Seas Treaty, which was signed earlier this year, presents a unique opportunity to enhance the conservation and sustainable management of marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions [3]. This international agreement will establish a framework for the protection and sustainable use of marine resources in areas outside national boundaries, including Blue Carbon ecosystems. The treaty could unlock the potential of these vast expanses of the ocean, fostering global collaboration for a more sustainable future.

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Marine Renewable Energy

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Marine renewable energy harnesses the power of the ocean's vast resources to generate clean and sustainable electricity. This form of renewable energy includes various technologies such as wave energy, tidal energy, and ocean thermal energy conversion. By tapping into these immense resources, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate the negative impacts of climate change.

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Wave energy systems convert the energy from ocean waves into electricity, while tidal energy systems capture the kinetic energy from the ebb and flow of tides. These technologies provide predictable and consistent power, offering great potential for meeting our energy demands in a sustainable manner. Additionally, they produce minimal greenhouse gas emissions and have a relatively low visual impact compared to other forms of energy generation.

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One notable example in the field of Marine Renewable Energy is the Mersey Tidal project [4]. Located in the River Mersey, this ambitious endeavour aims to harness the immense tidal power of the river by installing an array of tidal turbines. By capturing the energy from the tides, the project seeks to generate clean electricity, reduce carbon emissions, and pave the way for a greener future in the region.

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Conclusion

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I strongly believe that by understanding the significance of blue carbon ecosystems, such as seagrass meadows, and advocating for their conservation, we can unlock their immense potential in mitigating climate change and by embracing marine renewable energy technologies like wave and tidal energy, we can power our societies sustainably and contribute to a cleaner and greener future. It is through collective efforts and innovative solutions that we can pave the way towards a more sustainable world, preserving our marine ecosystems and ensuring a brighter future for generations.

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Written by Sam Thom

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References

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1.       https://www.wwf.org.uk/what-we-do/planting-hope-how-seagrass-can-tackle-climate-change#:~:text=Seagrass%20is%20the%20world's%20only,than%200.1%25%20of%20the%20seafloor.

2.       https://www.projectseagrass.org/

3.       https://www.highseasalliance.org/treaty-negotiations/

4.       https://www.liverpoolcityregion-ca.gov.uk/its-time-for-tidal/

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