Global Seagrass Mapping Reveals Widespread Loss Since 2019

Global high-resolution mapping of seagrass meadows has revealed widespread loss and degradation since 2019, according to research published online on June 24, 2026, in Nature. The study, which utilized advanced remote sensing techniques, indicates that a substantial portion of the world's seagrass ecosystems are experiencing decline, impacting their capacity to sequester carbon and support marine biodiversity.

The findings highlight that the majority of these vital marine habitats are located outside of formally protected areas. This lack of protection leaves them vulnerable to anthropogenic pressures such as coastal development, pollution, and unsustainable fishing practices. The research team emphasized that this global overview provides critical data for informing effective marine conservation strategies and climate change mitigation policies.

Seagrass meadows are recognized as significant carbon sinks, playing a crucial role in the global carbon cycle. Their degradation not only releases stored carbon but also diminishes their ability to absorb atmospheric CO2. The study's comprehensive dataset aims to serve as a baseline for future monitoring efforts and to guide international cooperation in safeguarding these ecologically and economically important ecosystems. The authors called for immediate action to expand protected marine areas and implement stricter regulations to curb the drivers of seagrass decline.