The concept of 'blue carbon' refers to carbon captured by the world's oceanic and coastal ecosystems, particularly mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses. These habitats sequester carbon at rates far exceeding those of terrestrial forests, storing it in biomass and sediment for millennia. However, their degradation releases stored carbon, contributing to climate change. Recent studies emphasize that protecting and restoring these ecosystems is not only a biodiversity priority but also a cost-effective climate mitigation strategy. Unlike terrestrial carbon offset projects, blue carbon initiatives often face unique challenges, such as measuring carbon fluxes in dynamic tidal environments and securing long-term tenure over coastal lands. Nevertheless, policy frameworks like the Paris Agreement increasingly recognize blue carbon's potential, urging nations to include these habitats in their climate commitments. This recognition marks a shift from viewing coastal ecosystems solely as buffers against storms to valuing them as critical carbon sinks.
❓ According to the passage, what is a distinctive challenge for blue carbon projects compared to terrestrial ones?
A. A. They require more expensive satellite technology.
B. B. They face difficulties in measuring carbon in changing tidal zones.
C. C. They have lower carbon storage rates per area.
D. D. They are not included in any international agreements.
✅ 正确答案
B. They face difficulties in measuring carbon in changing tidal zones.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first