Nov

SEA GRASS RESTORATION: PIONEERING BLUE CARBON ECOSYSTEMS FOR CLIMATE ACTION AND COASTAL RESILIENCE

The seagrass restoration project focuses on addressing climate change by restoring seagrasses along the Visakhapatnam coast, which are capable of absorbing 33% more CO2 than land-based plants. The team successfully acclimatized Halophila ovalis and Halodule pinfolia, extracted from Chilika Lagoon in Odisha, using local seawater, sediment, and seaweed extract as fertilizer. To enhance photosynthesis, they provided broad-spectrum visible light and introduced artificial CO2 through a DIY generator developed by the team. The project’s goal is to restore these ecosystems to support carbon sequestration. Although unexpected weather conditions caused delays in the replanting process, the team remains committed to overcoming these challenges and contributing to environmental sustainability in the region.

The seagrass restoration project has positively impacted both the environment and the community by raising awareness of seagrasses’ role in carbon sequestration and coastal protection. Despite weather-related delays in replanting, the team engaged the community through art exhibitions, informational materials, and public talks, while also presenting their research at a national conference, where they earned second prize. Their work combined technical research on seagrass growth with educational outreach, fostering greater local involvement and understanding of conservation efforts, and demonstrating the power of such initiatives to drive environmental and community-based change.

TEAM MEMBERS: