IUCN Med Protects Vital Blue Carbon Habitats in Mediterranean
IUCN Med, a leading conservation body, has been instrumental in changing perceptions of Posidonia oceanica debris-covered beaches, highlighting their crucial role in coastal resilience. Meanwhile, the organisation has formed alliances and presented strategies to protect blue carbon habitats across the Mediterranean.
IUCN Med has been advocating for aligning national and local actions with broader frameworks like the Barcelona Convention and the Union for the Mediterranean's Blue Economy Agenda. In 2025, they formalized an alliance with OMODA/JAECoo Spain to protect blue carbon habitats in Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park through citizen science, education, and sustainable tourism.
In Aguamarga Bay, IUCN Med leads a project with REDEIA to protect Posidonia oceanica meadows through participatory governance and conflict mediation. This project, part of the 'Marine Forest' program, aims to preserve these vital ecosystems that capture and store large amounts of carbon, protect coasts from erosion, and host biodiversity.
Blue carbon ecosystems, including seagrass meadows, marshes, and coastal wetlands, play a crucial role in mitigating climate change and preserving coastal environments. Posidonia oceanica meadows, in particular, offer refuge to countless marine species and help stabilize coastlines against storms and sea-level rise. However, these ecosystems face increasing pressure from boat anchoring, tourist development, pollution, and lack of protection.
IUCN Med's efforts to protect and preserve blue carbon habitats, such as Posidonia oceanica meadows, are vital for the Mediterranean's coastal resilience and climate change mitigation. Through alliances, strategic projects, and advocacy, the organisation continues to promote the recognition and conservation of these essential ecosystems.
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