Research on ecological value realization based on carbon trading—Take blue carbon as an example

Abstract

This study aims to develop and expand a new perspective on ecological value realization (EVR) and provide policy recommendations for marine ecological value realization (MEVR) based on Carbon Trading. Currently, the immaturity of EVR calculation methods and difficulties in determining the price of ecological products pose significant challenges to ecological value trading. By employing mathematical models and logical reasoning, this study proposes a novel framework for EVR, illustrated through several diagrams. According to this framework, ecological value is not static but fluctuates with factors such as human well-being (HV) or gross domestic product (GDP). Therefore, ecological value should be determined by an exchange market rather than solely relying on hypothetical calculation methods. Consequently, carbon trading cases are crucial in understanding ecological value. Based on the analysis of blue carbon (BC) trading cases, including the lack of international BC exchanges, challenges in carbon sink projects, and the Free Rider Effect, this paper identifies current issues in MEVR and BC trading in China. To address these challenges, we propose integrating carbon trading databases with evaluations of ecological protection and restoration projects, along with BC trading data, to calculate ecological value. Additionally, we recommend increasing the supply of BC products in both national carbon trading markets and voluntary markets, promoting the internationalization of BC accounting, addressing the Free Rider Effect through government actions and market mechanisms, attracting more foreign investment in BC enhancement projects, and formulating a BC enhancement plan during marine resource development.

Keywords

blue carbon / carbon peak and carbon neutrality / Chinese Certified Emission Reduction (CCER) / ecological value

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RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

2025 The Author(s). River published by Wiley-VCH GmbH on behalf of China Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Research (IWHR).