One of the unique facts about blue carbon is that mangrove ecosystems, as one of the blue carbon stores, can absorb carbon from the atmosphere up to four times more efficiently than tropical forests on land. This means that mangroves not only protect the coast from erosion and provide habitat for many species, but also play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing and storing large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
“Blue carbon ecosystems, such as mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes, play a vital role in climate regulation by sequestering and storing large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. These ecosystems are often referred to as ‘carbon sinks’ due to their ability to capture and store carbon at rates that far exceed those of terrestrial forests.” — Dr. J. W. Fourqurean, marine ecologist and blue carbon researcher.
What are Mangroves and Blue Carbon?
Mangroves are forests that grow in tropical and subtropical coastal areas, with roots submerged in salt water. This ecosystem includes various species of trees and shrubs that can survive in extreme environmental conditions, such as brackish water and tidal waves.
(Source: Filantra Documentation in the planting of IHC Pertamedika Mangrove Trees in North Jakarta in August 2024)
Blue Carbon refers to carbon absorbed and stored by coastal and marine ecosystems, including mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes. Blue Carbon has an extraordinary ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in the soil, much more efficiently than terrestrial ecosystems.
Mangroves: Efficient Carbon Absorbers
Mangroves are known for their highly effective ability to absorb carbon. Some of the reasons why mangroves are so superior in carbon absorption include:
Deep and Dense Roots: The deep and dense roots of mangroves can store carbon in the form of organic matter that accumulates in the soil. This process reduces carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Long-Term Carbon Storage: Carbon stored in mangrove soil can be maintained for hundreds or even thousands of years. This is different from terrestrial forests which often have a shorter carbon storage cycle.
Increased Biomass: Mangroves have high biomass, and their photosynthesis process produces large amounts of organic carbon. This carbon is stored in plant material and soil.
(Source: visualcapitalist.com)
Link to Sustainability and ESG
Sustainability is a core principle that guides efforts to maintain environmental, economic, and social health for future generations. As efficient carbon sinks, mangroves play a critical role in sustainability strategies because they help reduce the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, a major factor in global warming.
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) are criteria used to evaluate the sustainability and ethical impact of a company’s investments and activities. In the context of ESG:
Environmental: Mangroves support environmental criteria by sequestering carbon, reducing coastal erosion, and supporting biodiversity.
Social: Mangroves provide social benefits to coastal communities, including protection against natural disasters such as tsunamis and storms.
Governance: Good management of mangrove ecosystems supports the principles of transparent and accountable governance.
IHC Paramedika and Filantra CSR Activities
As part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) and commitment to sustainability, IHC Paramedika and Filantra recently launched an initiative to plant 400 mangrove trees in Jakarta. This activity not only supports environmental conservation but also contributes to a wider range of sustainability goals.
(IHC Pertamedika’s 400 Mangrove Tree Planting Activity in North Jakarta in 2024 | Photo: Filantra)
The objectives of this activity include:
Carbon Emission Reduction: By planting 400 mangrove trees, IHC Paramedika and Filantra contribute to carbon sequestration in Jakarta, which is an important step in reducing the company’s carbon footprint.
Ecosystem Restoration: Planting mangroves helps restore coastal ecosystems that may have been damaged by urbanization or other human activities.
Awareness Raising: This activity also aims to raise awareness of the importance of mangroves and blue carbon among the community and companies.
Social Benefits: In addition to environmental impacts, mangrove planting provides social benefits by creating green spaces that can be enjoyed by local communities, as well as increasing resilience to natural disasters.