EVALUATING THE POTENTIAL OF BLUE CARBON ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION FOR CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION IN PAKISTAN

Climate change has badly affected the earth's population and ecosystems as it raises sea levels, increases ocean temperature, and increases extreme weather events. In order to mitigate the impact of harsh weather Nature-based solutions including blue carbon ecosystem, biological fertilizer implementation, and restoration of forests gained the attention of the world. The current study evaluates the expected outcomes of blue carbon ecosystem restoration to reduce the impact of global warming in Pakistan. Pakistan has better coastal regions with adaptive blue carbon tools, but the man-made practices and deforestation of these areas reduce the blue carbon availability. This article emphasized available blue carbon resources, sequestration rates, and restoration opportunities. It was observed that changes in the strategies for the restoration of the blue carbon ecosystem in Pakistan could be a major carbon sequestering tool, and it will also provide co-benefits including coastal protection, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable livelihoods. This research provides crucial evidence to support Pakistan's climate action planning and to integrate blue carbon into the country's broader sustainability and resilience agenda.