A Study on the Characteristics, Development Challenges and Financial Mechanism Design of Blue Carbon in the United States

Green carbon, as represented by forest carbon sinks, has well-established policy and financial mechanisms in global climate governance. Blue carbon, which is derived from marine ecosystems such as mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass beds, has received little attention despite its significant carbon sequestration potential. This study looks at blue carbon in the United States, comparing its core characteristics to green carbon, identifying key development challenges, and proposing financial mechanism designs. The research employs literature review, comparative analysis, and case study methods, with the primary objects of analysis being U.S. blue carbon ecosystems and policy frameworks. Data are compiled from existing academic publications, government reports, and pilot project findings. The results indicate that U.S. blue carbon exhibits high sequestration efficiency, complex ecosystem services, and regionally concentrated distribution, but faces conflicts between conservation and development, technological and evaluation lags, and policy-market misalignment. Drawing on green carbon experiences, the study concludes that enhancing policy tools, advancing technical standardization, and designing targeted financial instruments are essential for overcoming these barriers. These insights contribute to blue carbon scholarship and offer practical value for U.S. and global blue carbon governance.