Seagrass Decline Threatens Climate & Oceans: Here’s Why It Matters! Check Its Impact & Way Forward

Seagrass meadows are among the most vital yet underappreciated ecosystems on Earth. These submerged marine plants play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and sustaining fisheries. However, their global decline due to human activities threatens ecological balance and climate goals. A recent study published in Nature Reviews Earth & Environment (February 28, 2025) by Carlos M. Duarte and his team highlights the alarming rate at which seagrass is disappearing and underscores the urgent need for conservation.

Seagrass Decline: A Global Concern

• Seagrass meadows have been declining at a rate of 1-2% per year for the past century.
• Nearly 5% of seagrass species are endangered due to pollution, coastal development, and climate change.
• Protecting 30% of seagrass by 2030 could help sustain marine biodiversity and combat climate change.

Why Seagrass Matters

Seagrass in India

• India has a coastline of 11,098 km (2023-24), accommodating 16 species of seagrass.
• Major seagrass meadows are found in:
• Gulf of Mannar
• Palk Bay
• Andaman and Nicobar Islands
• Lakshadweep Islands
• Gulf of Kutch
• India’s 516.59 sq. km of seagrass absorbs 434.9 tonnes of CO2 per sq. km annually.

Threats to Seagrass Ecosystems

• Pollution: Industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and plastic pollution degrade water quality.
• Coastal Development: Infrastructure projects and tourism activities damage seagrass beds.
• Climate Change: Rising temperatures and ocean acidification threaten seagrass survival.
• Weak Enforcement: Despite legal protections, conservation laws are poorly implemented.

Restoration and Conservation Efforts

• Global Efforts:

• 23.9% of known seagrass areas are under Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
• Nearly 2,000 restoration projects are underway worldwide.
• Virginia, USA, restored 1,700 hectares of Zostera marina, reviving marine biodiversity.

• India’s Initiatives:

• Between 2011 and 2020, 14 acres of degraded seagrass in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay were restored, with an 85-90% success rate.
• The Organization for Marine Conservation, Awareness, and Research employs eco-friendly methods like bamboo frames and coconut rope for transplantation.

Way Forward

• Integrate seagrass conservation into national marine policies with strict enforcement.
• Expand marine protected areas to cover more seagrass meadows.
• Promote community participation in restoration projects.
• Strengthen research and monitoring using advanced technology.
• Reduce coastal pollution through stricter regulations on industrial and agricultural runoff.

Conclusion

Seagrass conservation is crucial for sustaining marine biodiversity, enhancing fisheries, and mitigating climate change. While restoration efforts are yielding positive results, stronger policy interventions and community-driven initiatives are essential to prevent further degradation. By prioritising seagrass protection, nations can ensure a healthier marine ecosystem and contribute to global climate goals.