The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) Philippines, together with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the World Economic Forum (WEF), and the UK Government’s Blue Planet Fund, has launched the National Blue Carbon Action Partnership (NBCAP) to enhance the protection and restoration of the Philippines’ blue carbon ecosystems.  

The partnership, introduced at Novotel Manila, aims to restore mangroves, seagrasses, and tidal marshes while fostering climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities. NBCAP will convene scientists, policymakers, and community leaders to develop high-impact projects and integrate blue carbon strategies into national and local policies.  

“Our blue carbon ecosystems are natural defenses, carbon sinks, and sources of food and livelihood. Restoring them is essential to our environmental and economic future,” said Edwina Garchitorena, ZSL Philippines Country Director.  

Experts emphasized that these ecosystems support fisheries and tourism, contributing to the global blue economy. Dr. Severino Salmo II of UP Diliman, Dr. Dixon Gevaña of UP Los Baños, and Dr. Yasmin Primavera-Tirol of Aklan State University highlighted the need to align conservation with the Philippines’ commitments to international biodiversity and climate agreements, including COP.  

In addition to restoration projects like those in Leganes, Iloilo, and Ibajay, Aklan, NBCAP will push for legislative measures specific to blue carbon to strengthen protection and attract more funding. A key initial goal is finalizing the National Blue Carbon Action Roadmap, which will guide policies and programs.  

NBCAP also aims to bridge research gaps by enhancing access to scientific data and methodologies for blue carbon ecosystems. With strong community involvement, the partnership seeks to create jobs, boost food security, and ensure coastal resilience, particularly in high blue carbon areas such as Palawan, Surigao, Tawi-Tawi, and the Verde Island Passage.  

The DENR and ZSL Philippines, active in coastal conservation since 2009, will work closely with various sectors to secure the long-term sustainability of these vital ecosystems.