Developing a coastal blue carbon market feasibility assessment: Key actions for climate mitigation and adaptation

This project undertakes a coastal blue carbon market feasibility assessment to evaluate the climate mitigation and adaptation potential of the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape (TSPS). The initiative actively involves residents through community meetings and surveys, starting with a baseline survey to assess climate adaptation awareness. A stakeholder map will also be developed to identify and engage key partners, ensuring broad, cross-sector collaboration.

By modeling potential increases in biodiversity and assessing mangrove restoration needs, this project aims to forecast positive ecological outcomes. A strong emphasis on inclusivity will ensure women’s participation is prioritized through gender-focused sessions, creating a more holistic approach to feasibility assessment.

The stakeholder mapping and assessment process will focus on raising awareness about the benefits of mangrove restoration to foster community support for sustainable practices. Community consultations will introduce High-Quality Blue Carbon Market Principles, and discussions will address social issues and degradation drivers to gain local buy-in and reduce the risk of harmful practices shifting elsewhere. The pre-feasibility study findings will align with local regulations and address potential barriers, ensuring compliance and feasibility.

Key beneficiaries of blue carbon ecosystem services, such as those reliant on pollution-free and sustainably managed fisheries, will be identified, promoting conservation and reducing destructive practices. This project will also develop a draft financial model and business plan based on the assessment results, with projected carbon credit revenue supporting a Community Development Fund. This fund aims to drive local engagement in mangrove conservation while supporting broader sustainability efforts.

Should the project move forward, surplus revenues could be allocated to regional development initiatives under an equitable Benefit Sharing Plan, ensuring fair distribution of benefits. The project collaborates closely with local governments, TSPS governance bodies, and partners like the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR-BMB) to strengthen conservation efforts, inform policy, and expand access to resources and capacity-building opportunities.