A multi-framework analysis of stakeholders’ perceptions in developing a localized blue carbon ecosystems strategy in Eastern Samar, Philippines

Summary

Blue carbon ecosystem (BCE) is composed of mangroves, seagrasses, and seaweeds that have the capacity to absorb large amount of carbon from the atmosphere. With the rising global temperatures and carbon emissions, BCEs can help in mitigating the potential impacts of human-induced global changes by storing and sequestering carbon through the years. The Philippine coastline is lined with BCEs that are mostly unprotected by the government – including the local municipalities – because only few are informed about the BCEs’ vital role in the changing climate. To address this knowledge gap and to increase the awareness on BCEs at local levels, a case study was conducted by applying our framework in some municipalities in Eastern Samar wherein the stakeholders are composed of the following: municipal and barangay officials, representatives of people’s organization (PO), and community facilitators. Through a focus group discussion (FGD), the factors that affect the stakeholders’ perception on their engagement with BCEs and the depth of their understanding about this matter were identified. It was found that the governance structure and policy-making bodies are external factors that must be considered in implementing BCE conservation efforts. This case study may be replicated to other communities in order to improve our framework that aligns to the national and international BCE agenda and to provide a better understanding on the BCE as a mitigator of climate change impacts.

Significance

The study was conducted in order to attain a local-level engagement with regards to the blue carbon ecosystem (BCE) as it is perceived to mitigate the impacts of climate change. It was also done to determine how to address the knowledge gap on BCE and in the implementation of conservation efforts within the municipalities in the Philippines, especially in Eastern Samar. The strategies of this work may be replicated and modified for other parts of the country for a more national approach on climate change mitigation through protection and conservation of BCEs.

Photos

Authors:

Jay Mar D. Quevedo (Asia Research Institute, National University of Singapore)
Charissa M. Ferrera (Marine Science Institute, University of the Philippines)
Marie Grace Pamela G. Faylona (Philippine Normal University)
Ryo Kohsaka (The University of Tokyo)

Read the full article: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13280-023-01972-8