Carbon sequestration

Definition

Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) to mitigate climate change. This process can occur naturally through biological systems, like forests and oceans, or through engineered technologies designed to capture CO2 from industrial sources. The relevance of carbon sequestration extends to various ecosystems and environmental concerns, making it crucial for reducing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere and enhancing ecosystem resilience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coastal ecosystems like mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses are highly effective at sequestering carbon, often referred to as blue carbon ecosystems.
2. These ecosystems not only capture CO2 but also provide additional benefits, such as habitat for wildlife, coastal protection, and improved water quality.
3. Carbon sequestration through coastal wetlands is crucial in combating ocean acidification by reducing the amount of CO2 that enters the ocean.
4. Restoration and conservation efforts in these ecosystems can enhance their capacity for carbon storage while providing vital ecological services.
5. The effectiveness of carbon sequestration can be affected by factors such as land use changes, pollution, and climate change itself.

Review Questions

• How does carbon sequestration in coastal wetlands and marshes contribute to mitigating climate change?
  • Carbon sequestration in coastal wetlands and marshes plays a significant role in mitigating climate change by capturing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. These ecosystems can absorb large amounts of CO2 through plant growth, particularly in roots and sediments. Additionally, they help stabilize coastlines against erosion while providing habitats for various species. By maintaining these wetlands, we enhance their ability to sequester carbon while supporting biodiversity.
• Discuss the relationship between ocean acidification and carbon sequestration within marine ecosystems.
  • Ocean acidification occurs when excess atmospheric CO2 is absorbed by the oceans, leading to decreased pH levels that adversely affect marine life. Carbon sequestration in marine ecosystems, such as seagrasses and mangroves, helps mitigate this issue by reducing the overall concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere. When these plants sequester carbon through photosynthesis, they not only contribute to climate regulation but also enhance ecosystem health by fostering conditions less conducive to acidification. Protecting these habitats is therefore critical for both carbon storage and maintaining marine biodiversity.
• Evaluate the impact of blue carbon ecosystems on global climate strategies in the context of sustainable development.
  • Blue carbon ecosystems significantly contribute to global climate strategies by offering a natural solution for carbon sequestration while supporting sustainable development goals. By preserving and restoring coastal habitats like mangroves and seagrasses, we can enhance their capacity to store carbon, which helps combat climate change effectively. Furthermore, these ecosystems provide essential services such as fisheries support, coastal protection, and biodiversity conservation. Integrating blue carbon initiatives into broader climate policies promotes sustainable management practices that not only address greenhouse gas emissions but also improve community resilience against environmental changes.

Related terms

Photosynthesis: The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll, converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Blue carbon: The carbon stored in coastal and marine ecosystems, including mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses, which are essential for climate regulation and biodiversity.

Ocean acidification: The process by which the ocean becomes more acidic due to increased CO2 levels in the atmosphere, which can negatively impact marine life and ecosystems.