A major new report has placed the Isle of Man at the forefront of blue carbon research in the British Isles after it was published today.
The Manx Blue Carbon Research Project (MBCRP) report presents the findings of a four-year programme that has advanced understanding of how seas store carbon, support biodiversity and provide vital ecosystem services. Two research papers have also been published, reinforcing the Isle of Man’s position as a leader in this field.
Led by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA), the project forms part of the Isle of Man’s Net Zero ambitions and was delivered with the National Oceanography Centre, Swansea University, and Bangor University.
Since 2022, scientists have mapped habitats across Manx waters, which make up 85% of the island’s UNESCO Biosphere reserve. This includes 50,000 hectares of offshore muddy seabed, 196 hectares of seagrass, and 7.4 hectares of coastal wetlands, or saltmarsh. These habitats store an estimated 500,000 tonnes of carbon – equivalent to 1.8 million tonnes of CO₂, or the annual emissions of roughly 390,000 cars.
The project has delivered economic and social gains, including the launch of a sustainable Nephrops (Langoustine) fishery, generating tourism and educational opportunities, and reinforcing the Isle of Man’s vision for resilient seas and a thriving blue economy.
The Island is leading blue carbon research through a whole-of-Island approach. Scientists are studying areas of the Western Irish Sea Mud-belt to see how fishing affects carbon-rich seabeds, while considering biodiversity, climate, and economic benefits. A small-scale creel fishery further demonstrates how environmental protection and economic opportunity can work together.
Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:
'The Manx Blue Carbon Project has shown just how important our seas are, not only for wildlife and fisheries, but also for tackling climate change. This research, including the report and supporting papers, gives us the evidence we need to protect our marine environment wisely, support sustainable economic opportunities, and ensure these benefits endure.'
Project Lead, Rowan Henthorn, added:
'This project has brought together scientists, government, and industry in a way that has transformed our understanding of blue carbon in Manx waters. By building a clear evidence base for how our marine ecosystems store carbon, we now have the tools to make informed, long‑term decisions that benefit both the environment and our island community.'
Alongside the report, DEFA has published a Blue Carbon Action Plan covering 2026 to 2030, which sets out the concrete steps it will take to protect carbon stores, strengthen marine ecosystem resilience, and embed blue carbon evidence into wider climate and marine policy, turning the project's findings into lasting action.
