Japan is actively working to combat climate change by engaging in initiatives focused on the absorption and capture of carbon dioxide (CO2) in seaweed and seagrass. These efforts not only aim to address environmental challenges but also offer additional benefits such as improving fisheries resources and enhancing seawater quality. The nation has established a framework for trading blue carbon credits, which can be sold and purchased as part of a new system introduced to incentivize and support environmental projects.
In Japan, blue carbon refers to the CO2 absorbed by oceanic ecosystems, while green carbon represents the CO2 absorbed by forests and vegetation on land. A state-designated organization is responsible for certifying blue carbon and issuing credits, providing a mechanism for selling these credits to enterprises seeking to offset their carbon footprints. The Japan Blue Economy (JBE) Association has been actively involved in efforts to reconstruct seaweed colonies nationwide, issuing certificates known as J Blue Credits based on the CO2 absorption achieved through these initiatives.
One of the successful projects in Japan's environmental efforts involved collaborating with Nippon Steel Corp. in Mashike, Hokkaido, to restore a local seaweed population. By burying iron slag in coastal areas to supply iron to the sea, the initiative aimed to promote the growth of "konbu" kelp. As a result, the konbu colony in the area saw a significant increase, leading to improved marine ecosystems and higher incomes for the local fisheries cooperative association. The success of this project has inspired similar initiatives in over 50 locations across Japan, highlighting the potential of seaweed farming in reducing carbon footprints and enhancing ecological sustainability.