Out of the Blue: The Value of Seagrasses to the Environment and to People

This report examines the ecological, social and economic importance of seagrass ecosystems and outlines approaches to improve their conservation and management. It describes the wide range of ecosystem services provided by seagrasses, including fisheries support, water purification, coastal protection, carbon sequestration and disease regulation, supported by quantitative assessments and valuation methods. The document reviews global patterns of decline, identifies cumulative pressures such as coastal development and climate change, and highlights gaps in protection and management. It presents methods for mapping and monitoring, including satellite imagery, drones, acoustic tools and field surveys, and emphasises the role of standardised data and metadata. The report also explores restoration initiatives and the contribution of citizen science to knowledge development and policy support.