The Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) has embarked on a basic research on the carbon sequestration potential of seagrass beds. Among others, it was discovered that a 50-hectare seagrass meadow in Lian, Batangas, can capture 97 megagrams of carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalent to the annual emission of 20 cars. The blue carbon study also identified seagrass species that have high carbon sequestration capacity to offset emissions. Seagrass experts led by Bryan Dewsbury noted these benefits as direct food source, nursery function (commercial fishes, coral reef fishes and tourism revenue), carbon sequestration, wave energy reduction (erosion control and coastline integrity, coastal real estate value), sediment stability and improved water quality (from its use of marine nutrients).

Cariño, C. (2018, September 20). Seagrass economic impact under study.The Manila Times, B5.