From case study to general principle: An analysis of the development mechanism and policy optimization of mangrove carbon sinks

Mangroves, as a crucial coastal ecosystem, possess significant carbon sink functions and play a key role in mitigating global climate change. This paper, based on the Zhanjiang Mangrove Afforestation Project in Guangdong, explores the development mechanisms and economic and ecological benefits of mangrove carbon sink projects through the lens of collective action theory and system dynamics modeling. The study finds that the primary reason for the unsustainable progression of mangrove carbon sink projects is the lack of intrinsic motivation among local villagers to engage in collective action. By constructing a system dynamics model, this paper quantifies the long-term impacts of mangrove carbon sink projects on local socio-economic welfare and proposes policy optimization recommendations. These recommendations include expanding income sources for local villagers, establishing carbon trading and ecological compensation mechanisms, and involving international non-governmental organizations. The findings of this study not only provide guidance for mangrove carbon sink projects in China but also offer valuable insights for the promotion of similar projects globally.