Press Release: Blue Carbon Trust supports groundbreaking saltmarsh restoration project across Scotland

The Blue Carbon Trust is pleased to announce its partnership and co-funding of Green Shores, a pioneering project dedicated to restoring Scotland’s critical saltmarsh habitats. Led by Dr. Clare Maynard at the University of St Andrews, Green Shores is expanding its restoration efforts across multiple estuaries, helping to protect valuable blue carbon ecosystems that play a key role in climate regulation and coastal resilience.

Saltmarshes rank among the most productive carbon sinks on the planet, sequestering carbon at rates significantly higher than terrestrial forests. They also provide essential coastal defence, support unique biodiversity, filter water, and offer recreational opportunities for local communities. Yet, these habitats face ongoing threats from human activity and erosion, leading to extensive losses in Scotland.

“Restoring saltmarsh ecosystems is central to climate action and nature recovery,” said Dr. Clare Maynard, Head of Green Shores.

“Our approach combines scientific rigour with strong community engagement to create bespoke restoration plans that boost resilience and carbon sequestration. It’s a privilege to work alongside the Blue Carbon Trust to expand Scotland’s capacity for meaningful coastal restoration.”

Pete Raines MBE, CEO of Blue Carbon Trust, added:

“At Blue Carbon Trust, we are committed to delivering nature-based climate solutions that protect and restore our planet’s vital blue carbon habitats. Supporting the Green Shores project directly reflects our values of innovation, partnership, and community empowerment. Together, we are accelerating action to secure Scotland’s saltmarshes; natural defenders against climate change and biodiversity loss.”

This collaboration underscores the importance of evidence-based restoration and stakeholder involvement in scaling up blue carbon projects, contributing towards Scotland’s climate targets and a sustainable environmental future.

For more information on Green Shores and Blue Carbon Trust’s work, visit: https://greenshores.wp.st-andrews.ac.uk/about/