Tamil Nadu is embarking on a significant scientific project to map its coastal “blue carbon” ecosystems, including mangroves, seagrass meadows, and tidal marshlands, with the help of drones, Artificial Intelligence, and cloud computing. The initiative’s goal is to gather detailed data on the carbon stored in these ecosystems and create a comprehensive Blue Carbon Atlas for the state. This effort could potentially allow Tamil Nadu to engage in global carbon markets.
Current estimates indicate that Tamil Nadu boasts approximately 90 sq km of mangroves, 800 sq km of seagrass beds, and about 64 sq km of tidal marshlands. However, these figures are considered uncertain due to the lack of comprehensive mapping of these ecosystems. Existing data is primarily derived from limited field samples across vast coastal areas, leading to discrepancies between state and national estimates. Scientists emphasize the importance of precise measurements to scientifically validate and trade the carbon stored in these ecosystems on international carbon markets.
To address this challenge, researchers from the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), in partnership with the Tamil Nadu Forest Department and technical assistance from Microsoft, have initiated a project to map these ecosystems in unprecedented detail. The head of GIS and remote sensing at MSSRF, R. Nagarajan, highlighted the significance of mangroves in storing carbon and expressed that the project would aid in identifying degraded areas for restoration, facilitating more targeted conservation efforts by the government.
The mapping endeavor will utilize advanced drones equipped with multispectral sensors to capture high-resolution imagery at a 2-5 centimeter scale, surpassing the resolution of previous satellite-based mapping. These sensors will enable scientists to analyze vegetation characteristics and classify different mangrove species more accurately. Additionally, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology will be employed to measure canopy height, a critical parameter for estimating forest biomass. Integration of drone data with satellite imagery and ground samples will be conducted to validate the findings.
In the final phase, each pixel in the mapped imagery will be assigned a specific carbon value, facilitating precise calculations of above-ground and below-ground carbon stocks in mangrove ecosystems. The project will also encompass the mapping of tidal marshlands adjacent to mangrove habitats. While mapping seagrass meadows poses challenges due to limitations in drone detection capabilities underwater, key marine areas like the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay, which harbor extensive seagrass beds and support endangered dugongs, will be included in the survey.
Upon completion, the project will culminate in the development of both digital and printed versions of the Blue Carbon Atlas. This resource will serve as a valuable tool for policymakers and conservationists, aiding in the protection of coastal ecosystems and exploring opportunities for climate finance.
