Blue Carbon Ecosystems in Malaysia – Status, Threats, and the Way Forward for Research and Policy

Abstract

Malaysia hosts some of the most productive blue carbon ecosystems globally. Here we review the status of and known threats faced by local mangroves and seagrass and examine conservation prospects using carbon financing. Based on lessons learnt from blue carbon projects worldwide, Malaysia needs to address governance and financing hurdles that include clarifying land tenureship, ensuring local community involvement and benefits, and obtaining sustainable financing for long-term success. Research to clarify uncertainties on extent of seagrass and trajectories of both seagrass and mangrove ecosystems is needed to determine baseline scenarios and demonstrate additionality in carbon projects. Clear, definitive national approach to blue carbon is essential to streamline accounting and inventory of carbon stocks and benefits. Addressing these barriers and gaps requires a whole of society approach and public-private partnerships and ultimately allow Malaysia to fully tap into the global voluntary carbon market, local businesses, philanthropy, and multilateral carbon financing.