CariCAS Seagrass Carbon Mapping

Introduction

CariCAS is a regional initiative focused on advancing seagrass carbon mapping and conservation across the Caribbean. Led by The Nature Conservancy and Florida International University, the project provides scientific protocols, training, and tools to help countries assess the carbon storage potential of seagrass ecosystems. Seagrasses play a critical role in climate change mitigation, supporting biodiversity, stabilizing coastlines, and sustaining livelihoods. Through collaboration with Caribbean nations, CariCAS builds regional research capacity and expands data collection to improve understanding of seagrass health, distribution, and carbon storage. The initiative has generated one of the first comprehensive datasets for Caribbean seagrasses, helping inform national greenhouse gas inventories and climate commitments. By strengthening science and partnerships, CariCAS supports conservation planning and empowers countries to protect seagrass ecosystems for long term climate and community benefits.