From Mechanisms to Markets: A Precision Quantification Framework and Paradigm Shift for Saltmarsh Carbon Sinks - Preprint

[Geoengineering News]

https://essopenarchive.org/users/1011263/articles/1371346-from-mechanisms-to-markets-a-precision-quantification-framework-and-paradigm-shift-for-saltmarsh-carbon-sinks

Authors: Rui Lu, Qiang Wang, Yanxin Zhao, Yiquan Yuan

24 December 2025

Abstract

Salt marshes play a critical yet poorly quantified role as efficient blue-carbon sinks due to methodological limitations in assessing their complex carbon dynamics. This review synthesizes mechanisms and drivers of saltmarsh carbon sequestration, emphasizing the synergy between biogeomorphic engineering and microbial–geochemical feedbacks that enable long-term carbon stabilization. We critically evaluate three dominant quantification methods—sediment accumulation + NPP, ecosystem flux, and stock-difference approaches—and reveal significant gaps in spatiotemporal representativeness and cross-method consistency. To address these challenges, we propose a novel integrated ”Observation–Model–Validation” framework that systematically couples multi-source observations, model-data assimilation, and independent verification to achieve precise, verifiable carbon accounting. This framework establishes the scientific foundation for carbon credit certification by overcoming key barriers in MRV (monitoring, reporting, and verification) requirements—including baseline setting, uncertainty quantification, and lateral carbon flux assessment. By bridging scientific innovation with carbon market needs, this review provides a transaction-ready pathway for converting saltmarsh conservation into tradable carbon assets, supporting global climate policy and blue-carbon implementation.

Source: ESS Open Archive