| Guardians & Saboteurs: The Untold Story of Blue Carbon" |
| Paper ID : 1042-ISCH |
| Authors |
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Shehab Aldin Ashraf, Ayman Amir Abdelwahab, Yousef Wael Salah, Mohamed Nasser Gomaa *, Ibrahim Muhamed El baz Faculty of science Helwan university |
| Abstract |
| Blue carbon ecosystems—mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes—are powerful natural allies in the fight against climate change because of their ability to capture and store carbon from the atmosphere. While they are often presented as stable carbon sinks, the reality is far more dynamic. This poster uncovers the untold story of the hidden forces that determine whether carbon remains stored as a climate benefit or is released back as a greenhouse gas. First, it highlights the role of blue carbon habitats as natural guardians, locking carbon into soils and sediments while also protecting coastlines and supporting biodiversity. Second, it explores the role of decomposers, described here as “gatekeepers of carbon,” who decide whether stored carbon is preserved or returned to the air. Finally, it introduces “methane managers,” microbial communities that act as a double-edged sword—sometimes stabilizing the system, but at other times producing methane, a greenhouse gas more potent than carbon dioxide. The novelty of this work lies in framing blue carbon as a balance between guardians and saboteurs, with microorganisms playing a central role. Future perspectives focus on integrating these hidden biological processes into conservation strategies and climate policies to ensure that blue carbon ecosystems reach their full potential as nature-based climate solutions. |
| Keywords |
| Blue carbon ecosystems Mangroves Seagrasses Salt marshes Carbon sequestration Climate change mitigation Carbon sinks Decomposers Microbial communities Methane emissions Greenhouse gases Nature-based solutions Coastal protection Biodiversity Conservation strategies |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |