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WWF-Singapore has initiated a three-year Blue Carbon Support Programme to address barriers in conserving mangroves, peatlands, and seagrass in Asia. Launched on January 15, the programme, supported by the Economic Development Board (EDB), aims to develop technologies for estimating carbon storage and improving sapling survival rates.

Blue carbon ecosystems can store carbon more efficiently than terrestrial forests. Southeast Asia has lost over 30% of its mangroves in the past 40 years, with a high failure rate for restoration projects.

The programme will partner with technology start-ups and research organizations to enhance project design and involve local communities in conservation efforts. EDB also announced a grant for developing satellite and geospatial technologies to measure carbon biomass accurately. The combined initiatives aim to scale blue carbon projects, attract investment, and support Singapore's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.