Communicating Blue Carbon Science Across the Indo-Pacific Region Through Capacity Building Fellowships

Abstract

Communicating the value of blue carbon ecosystems requires sound knowledge of biology, remote sensing, carbon assessment, policy, and approaches to restoration. We describe a successful training program where young professionals from developing countries are hosted in Australia and taught to communicate blue carbon science to researchers, policy makers, and the public. Across several programs, some run during the COVID-19 pandemic, participants increased their knowledge of important areas of blue carbon science by 58% to 74%. This integrative teaching platform gives participants the knowledge and skills needed to help solve the major challenges to the marine environment in their home countries.

Carrying capacity of mangrove ecotourism area in Pantai Indah Kapuk, North Jakarta, Indonesia

“…Fourth, local governments and tourism site managers must increase visitor and community awareness of mangrove conservation through educational activities. Raising awareness about the mangrove ecosystem can be achieved through interactive programs, workshops, and information dissemination (Arifanti et al 2022;Gómez-Ruiz et al 2022;Gorman et al 2023). These initiatives not only instill a sense of responsibility for mangrove preservation but also enhance the overall visitor experience.…”