The Abu Dhabi Blue Carbon Demonstration Project

be kept in mind, however with the approach to putting a monetary value on ecosystem services. Using proxy values from other parts of the world via benefits transfer may be misleading. As a result of the extreme environmental conditions and anthropogenic impacts in the Gulf region, both biodiversity and productivity are relatively low in these ecosystems compared to other marine systems elsewhere in the world. Market values are not directly comparable to other parts of the world where fisheries are more productive, where eco-tourism is a greater factor in economic development or where coastal communities and properties are at greatest risk from flood-related inundation, storm surges caused by cyclones or hurricanes, and/or tsunamis.

Although these figures are based on numerous assumptions and studies for enhancing their robustness recommended, they do suggest that economic benefits could be quite significant. They also highlight the prime importance of considering Blue Carbon ecosystems in a holistic manner and the central part that ecosystem services need to plan in determining environmental management priorities.

© AGEDI / Rob Barnes

Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi

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