Work

Research on ecological value realization based on carbon trading—Take blue carbon as an example

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study aims to develop and expand a new perspective on ecological value realization (EVR) and provide policy recommendations for marine ecological value realization (MEVR) based on Carbon Trading. Currently, the immaturity of EVR calculation methods and difficulties in determining the price of ecological products pose significant challenges to ecological value trading. By employing mathematical models and logical reasoning, this study proposes a novel framework for EVR, illustrated through several diagrams. According to this framework, ecological value is not static but fluctuates with factors such as human well‐being (HV) or gross domestic product (GDP). Therefore, ecological value should be determined by an exchange market rather than solely relying on hypothetical calculation methods. Consequently, carbon trading cases are crucial in understanding ecological value. Based on the analysis of blue carbon (BC) trading cases, including the lack of international BC exchanges, challenges in carbon sink projects, and the Free Rider Effect, this paper identifies current issues in MEVR and BC trading in China. To address these challenges, we propose integrating carbon trading databases with evaluations of ecological protection and restoration projects, along with BC trading data, to calculate ecological value. Additionally, we recommend increasing the supply of BC products in both national carbon trading markets and voluntary markets, promoting the internationalization of BC accounting, addressing the Free Rider Effect through government actions and market mechanisms, attracting more foreign investment in BC enhancement projects, and formulating a BC enhancement plan during marine resource development.

Source: River

DOI: 10.1002/rvr2.70006

Authors: Sun Qingyang, Xu Shusheng, Wang Faming, Chen Mianrun, Wang Lei

Institutions: Ministry of Natural Resources, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Chinese Academy of Sciences, South China Botanical Garden, Third Institute of Oceanography

Language: English

Topic: Environmental Conservation and Management

Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Life below water, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,200