G3ECA

Summary

The proposed Research Network is a pioneering initiative in Spain focused on Blue Carbon Ecosystems (BCE), such as salt marshes and seagrass meadows. The main objective of the Network is promote collaboration between national and international research groups for advise society and the authorities on the key role of the CAEs in the fight against climate change and in sustainable development.

The proposal is based on three main areas of work: the analysis of the current state of the ECA and its knowledge gaps; advising managers and policymakers to develop conservation and restoration strategies and plans; and the internationalisation and dissemination of the knowledge generated. Additionally, it is planned to organise the first international congress on ECA, develop training courses, and carry out outreach adapted to various social sectors to strengthen awareness and commitment to these ecosystems.

The Network aims to have a strong scientific, environmental, and social impact. In addition to contributing to the fulfilment of commitments such as the European Nature Restoration Law and the 2030 Agenda, it seeks to establish a unified standard for blue carbon credits, based on Andalusian experience, and to promote its extension at the European level. It will also create a national inventory of Blue Carbon Ecosystems (BCEs) and a website to centralise all relevant information. Finally, the training of new experts and the creation of an interdisciplinary network will facilitate innovation, knowledge transfer, and the integration of BCEs into public policies and business initiatives.