Recent research conducted by Tomas Buitendijk from the SFI Research Centre in Applied Geosciences at University College Dublin has shed light on how local communities in Dundalk Bay, Ireland, perceive the role of marine sediments in carbon storage. This study, published in the journal Ecology and Society, highlights the potential of these sediments to mitigate climate change by sequestering organic carbon, a concept often referred to as “blue carbon.”
The research involved interviews and focus groups with coastal residents, revealing a complex web of meanings and associations tied to Dundalk Bay. Residents expressed varied perceptions regarding the presence of carbon-storing sediments and the balance between protecting the environment and supporting economic activities such as fishing and tourism. Buitendijk noted, “We found different views about the presence of the sediments, and residents varied in their prioritization of measures to protect either nature or economic activity in the bay.”
This emerging understanding of blue carbon presents significant commercial opportunities for the energy sector. As governments and businesses increasingly recognize the importance of sustainable practices, investments in marine spatial planning (MSP) and marine protected areas (MPAs) could become more attractive. By protecting carbon-storing marine sediments, stakeholders can not only contribute to climate change mitigation but also enhance the long-term viability of coastal economies.
Furthermore, the study indicates that local knowledge and community engagement are crucial for effective management of marine environments. Buitendijk’s team found that residents used speculative mechanisms, such as analogy and experiential knowledge, to connect their existing understandings of the bay with the emerging concept of carbon storage. This insight underscores the need for energy companies and policymakers to engage with local communities to foster acceptance and support for blue carbon initiatives.
As the energy sector looks to diversify and invest in environmentally sustainable practices, the findings from Dundalk Bay could serve as a model for other coastal regions. The research emphasizes that recognizing and incorporating local perspectives can lead to more socially acceptable and effective marine management strategies.
For further details on the research, you can visit the SFI Research Centre in Applied Geosciences.
