Ecosystem Conservation and Community Initiative (ECCDI)

ECCDI is pioneering seagrass restoration in Myanmar to enhance carbon sequestration, support marine biodiversity, and protect coastal areas from erosion. This innovative project involves planting seagrass meadows, which, while less effective than mangroves in carbon sequestration, are more resilient due to their underwater location. The initiative will serve as a pilot, engaging local communities and providing training in seagrass plantation techniques and ongoing monitoring. ABIC funding will support stakeholder engagement, site acquisition, education, and the transplantation of 20,000 seagrass units. ECCDI aims to plant 20,000 seagrass shoots across one hectare in the next six months, sequestering 22,000 gC/year (equivalent to 0.081 tons of CO₂e/year). Initial results will show improved sediment stabilization and habitat restoration, while local communities will benefit from the project’s cash-for-work opportunities. Over the next two years, the project envisions expanding seagrass meadows, improving ecosystem health, and positioning seagrass plantations as a climate mitigation tool, with regulators encouraging their use to offset carbon emissions and promote coastal conservation.