Blue Carbon

Blue carbon refers to the organic carbon stored in the ocean. Mangrove, salt marsh and seagrass forests are recognized globally as blue carbon sources. Blue carbon ecosystems are known to store greater amounts of carbon than terrestrial ecosystems. These blue carbon sources absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis and fix carbon into their tissues and sediment. In addition, the tissues are buried into sediment and play an important role in storing carbon, which can be maintained for long time. The MEGA Lab conducts research determining carbon sequestration potential of major blue carbon organisms.

Salt marsh

Salt marshes provide important ecological services such as habitat, water quality improvement and biodiversity as well as sequestration of carbon dioxide. This carbon sequestration occurs when the carbon absorbed by photosynthesis of salt marsh plants is stored in sediments. Carbon stored in sediments lasts for decades to hundreds of years. The carbon storage is increasing due to growth of salt marsh plants and accumulation of sediments. We are continuing to conduct research on the carbon stored in salt marshes by salt marsh plants in Incheon.

Seagrass

Seagrass is the only flowering plant in the ocean and lives on coasts around the world. This plant not only absorbs carbon, but also acts as a spawning ground and habitat for marine organisms and removes nutrient.
More than 30% of seagrass forest in the world has been destroyed development and environmental pollution.

We analyze the carbon content stored in biomass and sediments, and suggest the amount of carbon dioxide that could be sequestered. It can also used to restore the habitat of seagrass.

Seaweed

In Korea, seaweed has traditionally been farmed for eating, but recently, its ability to absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis has been recognized. Seaweed can be stored in sediments along the coast. Large brown algae can sink to the deep sea and sequester carbon. In the coastal areas, seaweed blooms of Ulva are causing environmental pollution problems. We are conducting research on Ulva sp. accumulates as sediment and stores carbon. Additionally, carbon stored in organisms and sediments has been conducted in seaweed farms.