The concept of 'blue carbon' refers to the carbon captured by the world's oceanic and coastal ecosystems, particularly mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes. These habitats, although covering less than 2% of the ocean surface, account for approximately 50% of all carbon buried in marine sediments. Recent research has highlighted their disproportionate role in climate mitigation, as they sequester carbon at rates up to four times higher than terrestrial forests. However, these ecosystems are under severe threat from coastal development and rising sea levels, leading to the release of stored carbon back into the atmosphere. Conservation efforts, therefore, are not merely a matter of biodiversity preservation but also a critical strategy for climate change adaptation, as protecting and restoring these habitats can enhance coastal resilience and provide long-term carbon sinks.
❓ 本文によると、マングローブや海草などの沿岸生態系が気候緩和にとって特に重要であるのはなぜか。
A. A) それらは海洋表面の大部分を覆い、海洋の炭素の大部分を貯蔵している。
B. B) それらは、陸上の森林よりも面積当たりの炭素吸収率がはるかに高い。
C. C) それらは沿岸開発によるすべての炭素放出を防ぐ。
D. D) それらは、他の生態系よりも海面上昇に対してより回復力がある。
✅ 正确答案
B) They absorb carbon at a much higher rate per area than land-based forests.
IELTS Reading Tips
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