NITK, EMPRI join hands to develop mangrove-based carbon credit projects

Mangaluru: The National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal, and the Environmental Management and Policy Research Institute (EMPRI), Bengaluru, have signed an MoU to develop blue carbon projects centred on mangrove conservation and restoration along Karnataka’s west coast. The agreement was signed during a stakeholders’ workshop at NITK on Wednesday to explore carbon credit opportunities from coastal ecosystems and strengthen climate action initiatives. Upendra : Tripathy, vice-chairperson of the Karnataka Net Zero Task Force, said the partnership could launch pilot projects along the west coast and expand them through industry participation. He emphasised the need for practical targets and collaboration among academic institutions, industries and the state government.

Srinivasalu, Principal Secretary of the state Department of Ecology and Environment and Director General of EMPRI, said mangroves were a priority because of their carbon sequestration potential. Climate action, he said, could also create employment, attract investment and open avenues for carbon finance.

Karnataka Head of Forest Force Meenakshi Negi stressed the need to integrate scientific assessments with community participation and economic support for local people and small landowners. Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner Darshan H.V. said the district’s coastal and Western Ghats ecosystems offered scope for research and carbon credit initiatives. Mangaluru Circle Conservator of Forests Kamala highlighted the role of mangroves in protecting coastlines and absorbing carbon.

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M Raghuram

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