Blue Carbon Ecosystems and Disaster Resilience: Insights from Odisha, India

Coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrasses, salt marshes, and coral reefs, collectively termed blue carbon ecosystems, are pivotal in sequestering carbon, mitigating climate change, and fostering adaptation strategies. These systems store substantial carbon quantities, outperforming terrestrial forests on a per-acre basis, while offering ancillary benefits like coastal defence and economic sustenance. In Odisha, India, mangroves play a vital role in countering climate impacts and bolstering resilience against recurrent cyclones and storm surges. This study investigates the contributions of blue carbon ecosystems to carbon storage, climate adaptation, and their integration into Odisha’s disaster management framework. By examining Odisha’s proactive strategies, such as mangrove restoration and community-driven initiatives, this paper highlights the interplay between ecosystem conservation and disaster risk reduction. The findings advocate for ecosystem-based management to achieve carbon neutrality and strengthen coastal resilience.