To date, interest in natural carbon storage within the ocean, often referred to as 'blue carbon', has typically focused on mangrove forests, salt marshes, and seagrass meadows. However, a group of researchers from the University of Victoria may challenge this notion.

A new study led by UVic postdoctoral fellow Graham Epstein, suggests that marine protected areas (MPAs) could play a key role in preserving seabed carbon storage to help combat climate change. 

B次元官网网址淭he soils on the ocean floor may seem empty and unimportant, but they actually contain a unique, diverse and often fragile group of species, and they are vital to marine ecosystems,B次元官网网址� said Epstein. B次元官网网址淪eafloor sediments are the final point in the marine carbon cycle, and since they cover the majority of the ocean floor, they make up one of the planet's largest stores of carbon, dwarfing mangroves, seagrass meadows and salt marshes.B次元官网网址�

The study estimates that Canada's existing MPA network covers only 11 per cent of the carbon stored in the seafloor down to 2,500 metres, and just 13 per cent of carbon hotspots. Proposed MPA expansions could increase coverage by nine and six per cent, respectively.

Despite Canada's goal to expand MPAs to 30 per cent of its waters by 2030, none have been designated specifically for carbon storage. Industrial activities such as bottom fishing and deep-sea mining threaten to release stored carbon, contributing to climate change, said Susanna Fuller of Oceans North.

The study identifies 274 priority areas for future research and protection, with key locations in British Columbia and the Atlantic, including the Queen Charlotte Strait and Placentia Bay. 

For more information about the study, visit .