Assyfa Journal of Far ming and Agriculture, vol. 2 (1)              , pp.               40-50              , 2024               

Received 10 Oct  2024 / published  04 Nov  2024 

https://doi.org/10.61650/ajfa.v2i1.871

Blue Carbon and Food Security: A

Systematic Review of Mangrove Ecosystem

Services for SDG 13 (Climate Action) and

SDG 2 (Zero Hunger)

Endang Sun gkawati

1

, Jamal  Umali

2

  Universitas Dr Soetomo Surabaya, Indonesia

  University, Faculty of Agriculture, Afghanistan

  E-mail correspondence: [email protected]

Abstract

Mangroves  play  a  dual  important  role  in  sustainable  development,

serving  as  blue  carbon  storage  and               supporting               food               security               through

fisheries support. Research on the contribution of mangroves to climate

change  mitigation  and  food  security  is  increasingly  relevant  in  the

pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 13 (Climate Action) and

SDG  2  (Zero  Hunger).  This  study  aims               to               synthesize               the               latest               research

results  from  2022–2025  related  to  mangrove  ecosystem  services,

particula rly  in  supporting  carbon  sequestration  and  fisheri              es

productiv ity.  T he  m ethod  used  is  a  system              atic  review  of  relevant

national and international scientifi c publicati              ons during that period. The

results of  the  study  show  that  mangrove conservation and                             restoration

significant ly  enhance  carbon  sequestration  capacity  in  coastal  areas

while  improving  fish  catches.  T his  contributes  to  the  reduc              tion  of

greenhouse  gas  emissions  and  increases  the  income  and  food

availabili ty  of  coastal communities.  However,               policy integration linking

climate  and  food  agendas  remains  limited  and  requires  further

attention.  In  conclusion,  integrated  mangrove  management  will

strengthen the contribution of mangroves to achieving SDG 13 and SDG

2,  necessitating  synergy  between sec tors in               formulating policies               based

on scientifi c evidence.

Keywords:  blue  carbon,  m angrove,  food  se              curity,  SDG  13,  SDG  2,

systematic review.

INTRODUCTION

Global  climate  change  and  food  security  are  two  primary

challenges faced in sustainable development               (Holmquist et al., 2024),

particularly  in  coastal areas and developing countries (Heimhuber               et

al.,  2024;  Lu  et  al.,  2024;  Russell               et               al.,               2024).               These               regions               heavily

rely  on natural resources  for their  food               and               economic               needs. In this

context,  mangrove  ecosystems  play  a  significant               role  due               t              o               their

ability  to  efficiently  store  blue  carbon  and  support  fishery

productivity,  which  is  a  major  source  of  protein  and  income  for

coastal communities. 

However,  damage  to  mangrove  ecosystems  due  to  land

expansion, urbanization, and coastal infrastructure development has

caused serious problems. This damage leads to the loss of ecosystem

functions  as  erosion  buffers,  reduced               fish               catch,               and               the               r              elease               of

carbon  reserves  into  the  atmosphere.  These  challenges  are

exacerbated  by  weak  policy  integration  between  climate  change

mitigation  and  food  security  agendas,               as               well               as               limited  economic

incentives  for  local  communities  to               conserve               mangroves               (Bimrah               et

al., 2022; Kuenzer et al., 2011; Lee et al., 2014).  

Previous  research  on  mangrove  ecosystem  services  generally

examines biophysical and economic aspects separately. For instance,

Hendarto  (2023)  emphasizes  the  importance  of  mangrove

conservation  for  maintaining  biodiversity  and  local  ecosystem

stability.  Harrahap  &  da  Silva  Santiago  (2024)  study  the  role  of

agroforestry  systems  in  enhancing  carbon  sequestration  and

community  resilience  along  the  coasts  of  Indonesia.  Sebayang  &

Baroud  (2024)  focus  on  environmentally  friendly  sustainable

aquaculture  techniques.  Fauzia  (2024)  evaluates  the  economic

valuation  of  ecosystem  services  in  urban  agriculture  in  Indonesia

using  a  willingness-to-pay  approach.  Nevertheless,  most  of  these

studies  are  partial,  examining  carbon               or               fishery               outputs               separately

without  integrat ing  both  aspects  in  achieving  SDG  13  and  SDG  2               

(Jayaweera & Verma, 2024; Okeke- Ogbuafor et al., 2024; Tonui et al.,

2024).

The  studies  by  Ramadhani  et  al.  (2024)  and  Wijaya  &  Utami

(2025)  highlight  the  multifaceted  benefits               of               mangrove ecosystems,

particularly  in  the  enhancement  of  local  fish  populations                and  the

mitigation of natural disasters. Ramadhani et al. (2024) illustrate how

restored  mangroves  can  significantly  boost               fishery  yields,  offering

substantial  economic  benefits  to  coastal  communities.  However,

their  research  does  not  delve  into  the  implications  for  carbon

sequestration,  a  critical element  in  the               fight               against climate               change.

Similarly,  Wijaya  &  Utami  (2025)  provide  evidence  of  reduced

damage and economic losses from coastal flooding due to mangrove

preservation  (Kozielec  et  al.,  2024;  Nahar               et               al.,               2024;               Tjilen               et               al.,

2024). Yet, they too overlook  the  long-term               carbon storage benefits

that  mangroves  can  provide.  Meanwhile,  Putri  &  Nugroho  (2025)

explore  t he  synergy  between traditional               aquaculture               and mangrove

conservation,  presenting  promising  avenues               for               both               economic               and

environmental  gains,  but  their  focus               on               aquaculture               out              puts               leaves

detailed  carbon  accounting  unexplored  (Bjørndal  et  al.,  2024;

Moreno-Pérez et al., 2024; Rifna et al., 2024).  

contrast, Sari & Pranata (2025) emphasize the role of mangroves

in supporting biodiversity and promoting ecotourism, showcasing the

potential  for  sustainable  community  development.               However,  their

work  lacks  integration  of  car bon  sequestration               metrics.               Hasanah               et

al.  (2025)  offer  a  comparative  analysis  of  mangrove               management

Sungkawati, E, Blue Carbon and Food Security: A Systematic Review of Mangrove …. Assyfa Journal of far              ming and agriculture, 1 (1), 18-26,

2023

, 1 (1), 29-34, 2023

practices,  providing  insights  into  effective  strategies  for  carbon

storage and biodiversity enhancement (Hosseini et al., 2024), yet they

do not address economic returns from fisheries. Additionally, Kusuma

&  Widodo  (2025)  focus  on  the  policy  implications  of  mangrove

conservation,  advocating  for  integrated  management  approaches

that  consider  both  environmental  and               economic               dimensions.               Their

research,  however,  remains  primarily  within  the  realm  of  policy

frameworks without empirical integration of carbon and fishery data.

In summary, existing research provides valuable insights into various

aspects of mangrove ecosystem services, yet a significant gap persists

in  studies  that  integrate  both  carbon               sequestration               and               economic

outputs.  Such  an  integrated  approach               is               essential               for               fully               realizing

the  pot ential  of  mangroves  in  addressing  climate  change  and

ensuring  food  security,  especially  in  the  context  of  achieving

Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 13 and 2. 

This  research  offers  novelty  through  a  systematic  review  of

studies  from  2022  to  2025  that  specifically  examine  the  linkage

between  mangrove  ecosystem  services,               carbon               sequestration,               and

food  security,  as  well  as  their  impact               on               achieving               SDG               13               (Climate

Action) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger). Another novelty is the identification

of  research  gaps,  such  as  the  lack               of               studies               recommending               cross-

sectoral policy synergy models based on current empirical evidence. 

This  research  distinguishes  itself  by  offering  an  analytical

framework that directly links the function of mangrove ecosystems as

carbon  absorbers  and  fishery  productivity  supporters,  as  well  as

mapping the needs for integrative cross-sector policies. The theories

used  are t he  ecosystem  services  theory               and               the resilience               of               social-

ecological  systems,  emphasizing  the               importance               of               social-ecological

system  resilience  and  the  SDGs  framework  that  considers  the

interrelation of multi-development goals. The main concepts used are

blue carbon, food security, and integrated ecosystem management. 

This research is relevant and important because mangroves have

proven  to  simultaneously  contribute  to  carbon  absorption  and

increased  fishery  yields,  potentially  becoming  a  nature-based

solution  for  climate  change  mitigation  and  strengthening  coastal

community f ood security. However, there are several complex issues

such  as  weak  law  enforcement  for  mangrove  protection,  low

community  participation  in  cons ervation,               and               suboptimal               economic

incentives from sustainable mangrove  restoration and               management

activities.  

The  main  objective  of  this  research  is  to               synthesize  the               latest

research findings related to the contribution of mangrove ecosystem

services  to  climate  change  mitigation  and  food  security,  ident              ify

research  and  policy  gaps,  and  provide  evidence-based  policy

integration  recommendations  for  effectively               achieving               SDG               13               and

SDG  2.  It  is  hoped  that  this  research  can  provide  a  strategic

contribution  to  the  development  of  cross-sectoral  policies  t              hat

strengthen the role of mangroves as an ecosystem-based solution to

the challenges of climate change and food security.               

Research Me thods

2.1  Research Design 

The  research  utilizes  a  systematic               literature               review               a              pproach

combined with quantitative a nalysis of empirical data from tropical

aquaculture implementations. The study period spans fr              om 2020 to

2024,  focusing  on  peer-reviewed  publications  and  validated

industry  reports.  The  research  design   incorporates  both

exploratory  and  explanatory  elements  to  address  the  complex

interactions between immunostimulants and ecological systems.               

This study employs a systematic review design with bibliometric and

thematic  analysis  appr oaches.  It  focuses  on  national  and

international  scientific  publications  r elated               to               m              angrove               ecosystem

services  for  blue  carbon  and  food  s ecurity  during  the  2022              –2025

period.  This  d esign  is  chosen  to               pr              ovide               a               comprehensive               synthesis

of  research  trends,  collaboration  patterns,  an              d  know              ledge  gaps

relevant to SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger). 

The  systematic  review  process  f ollows  the  PRISMA  guidelines

(Preferred  Reporting  Items  for  S ystematic  Reviews  and  Meta-

Analyses),  which  include  identification,  screening,  eligibility

selection,  and  inclusion  of  articles.  The  synthesis  is                conducted

narratively  and  quantitatively  using  the  bibliometric  s              oftware

CiteSpace and VOSviewer, which ar e widely used in similar res              earch.

The  use  of  systematic  review  and               bibliometric               design               i              s               considered

effective  in  mapping  research  developments  and  generating

evidence-based recommendations for policymakers.                

To  facilitate  understanding  of  the  systematic               r              eview               research               flow,

Figure  1,  a  flowchart,   illustrates  t he  main  stages  from  literature

identification to data analysis.

Figure 1 Script (PRISMA + Bibliometric Flowchart).

Explanation of Figure 1 

Figure 1 shows the systematic review research flow, from

Sungkawati E et al Blue Carbon and Food Security: A Systematic Review of Mangrove Ecosystem               Services for SDG 13

literature  identification  in  databases  (Scopus,               WoS,               Google               Scholar)

using keywords, followed by screening and eligibility selection based

on  inclusion-exclusion  criteria,  data  extraction,               bibliometric               analysis

using CiteSpace and VOSviewer,  thematic synthesis and mapping, to

reporting results and policy recommendations. 

2.2 Data Collection 

Data  is  collected  through  literature  searches  in  international

databases  such  as  Scopus,  Web  of  Science,  and  Google  Scholar.

Keywords  used  include  "blue  carbon",               "mangrove",               "food               security",

"SDG 13", and "SDG 2", for the 2022–2025 period (Abudu et al., 2025;

Gonzalez-Aguilar  et  al.,  2023;  Haslberger  et  al.,               2022).               The  s              earch

process is conducted systematically by applying inclusion criteria such

as journal articles, proceedings, and relevant research reports, as well

as  exclusion  of  non-scientific  articles,               duplicates,               and               research               prior

to 2022. 

This  process  results  in  a  number  of  articles  that  are  then

evaluated  for  eligibility  based  on  abstracts,  full  texts,  and

methodological  quality.  Collection  also  involves  metadata

documentation for bibliometric analysis, such as authors, affiliations,

countries,  and  keywords.  This  data  collection  technique  follows

systematic review standards in the fields of environment and policy. 

2.3 Data Analysis with CiteSpace and VOSviewer 

Data  analysis is  conducted  both  quantitatively               and qualitatively.               

Quantitatively, bibliometric analysis uses software like CiteSpace and

VOSviewer  to  map  research  trends,  collaboration  networks,  and

visualize ke    y  keywords.  CiteSpace               is               used               for               co-

citation analysis, burst detection, and mapping knowledge networks,

while  VOSviewer  is  used  for  co-authorship,               co-occurrence               keyword

analysis, and research cluster visualization. 

Qualitatively,  thematic  synthesis  is  performed  on  the  main

research  findings  regarding  the  role  of  mangroves  in  carbon

sequestration and food security. The combination of these two tools

provides  a  comprehensive  picture  of               the               research               landscape,               gaps,

and policy development directions.  

2.4 Research Instruments 

The  research  instruments  encompass               the               PRISMA               checklist               for

systematic  searches,  data  extraction  protocols  using  an  Excel

template,  and  manual  coding  for  thematic  synthesis.  These

instruments are composed of ten main items: Article Identity, Year of

Publication,  Authors  and  Affiliations,               Research               Objectives,               Research

Methods,  Study  Location,  Main  Results,  Mangrove  Ecosystem

Services,  Contribution  to  Sustainable  Development               Goals               13               and               2,

and  Policy  Recommendations  (Bimrah               et               al.,               2022;               Hendarto,               2023;

Lu et al., 2024).  

The  research  subjects  are  scientific  publications               on               mangrove,

blue  carbon,  and  food  security topics,               with               the               population               being               all

related  articles  in  the  selected  databases.               The               research               location  is

global, focusing on tropical countries and Southeast Asia as dominant

case study locations.

Tabel 1. Research Instrument Table

No.  

Indicator  

Sub-Indicator  

Items  

Subjects/Population  

Place/Location  

1  

Article Iden tity  

Title, Authors, Year  

1–3  

Journals, proceedings  

Scopus, WoS  

2  

Research Objectives  

SDG 13, SDG 2  

4  

All relevan t articles  

Global  

3  

Methodology  

Systematic review,

bibliometric  

5  

Selected ar ticles  

Indonesia, ASEAN  

4  

Main Results  

Blue carbon, food

security  

6–8  

Case studies  

Asia-Africa  

5  

Recommendations  

Integrative policy  

9–10  

Policy papers  

Internationa l

studies  

2.5 Validity and Reliability 

Research  validity  is  ensured  through               article               selection               based               on

PRISMA criteria and methodological quality assessment using               critical

appraisal  tools.  Reliability  is  maintained               with               double               coding               of               data

extraction  by  two  independent  researchers               and               result               comparisons

(inter-rater reliability > 0.8). Additionally, the use of automated tools

(CiteSpace,  VOSviewer) reduces manual               bias               in bibliometric analysis.

External  validity  is  strengthened  by  comparing  this  research  with

previous relevant systematic reviews and bibliometric reviews.  

2.6 Research Subjects and Locations 

The subjects of this study are all scientific publications related to

mangroves, blue carbon, and food security indexed in Scopus, Web of

Science,  and  Google  Scholar  during  the  2022–2025  period.  The

population includes articles from various countries, with a dominance

of case studies in Indonesia, Southeast Asia, and tropical coastal areas

that  are  international  focal  points  in               blue               carbon               and               food               security

issues.  The  virtual  research  location               is               global,               but               spatial               analysis               in

bibliometrics  will  highlight  locations  with  the  most  significant

research and policy contributions. 

Introduction to Research Questions and Analysis Types Table 

Below  is  a  table  summarizing  the  research  questions  and  types  of

analysis applied

Tabel 2. Introduction to Research Questions and Analysis Types Table               

No  

Research Question  

Types of Analysis  

1  

What are the research trends and patterns of mangrove ecosystem               services

related to blue carbon and food security fo r the period 2022              –2025?  

Bibliom etric analysis (C iteSpace,

VOSviewer), trend mapping  

2  

What is the contribution of mangroves to carbon sequestration and fishery yields

relevant  to SDG 13 and SDG 2?  

Thematic synthesis, narrative analysis, and

meta-analysis  

3  

What factors influence the effectiveness of mangrove conservation/restoration fo              r

climate mitigation and food security?  

Gap analysis, research collaboration

network analysis, policy mapping  

4  

What integrative policy recommendations can connect               climate change and food

security agendas based on mangroves?  

Policy synthesis, best practices analys is,

and case studies  

Sungkawati E et al Blue Carbon and Food Security: A Systematic Review of Mangrove Ecosystem               Services for SDG 13

RESULT 

Research  Findings  on  the  Role  of  Mangrove  Ecosystems  in

Supporting  Blue  Carbon  and  Food  Security  for               SDG               13               and               SDG               2               

(Shabbir,  2025;  Sungkawati,  2024b;  Sungkawati               &  Uthman,

2024a) 

This document presents the findings from a systematic review of

research  on  the  role  of  mangrove  ecosystems  in  supporting  blue

carbon  and  food  security,  aimed  at  achieving  Sustainable

Development  Goal  (SDG)  13,  which               focuses               on               climate               action,               and

SDG  2,  which  aims  to  end  hunger.               Each               section  includes  key               data

findings,  visualizations  with  scripts,  and               tables  with  empirical  and

literature-based explanations from the attached f              iles. 

3.1  Enhancement  of  Blue  Carbon               Stock               in               Intervened

Mangroves  

Research  indicates  that  interventions  such               as               conservation               and

restoration  of  mangroves  significantly               increase               blue carbon               stock               in

coastal  zones.  According  to  a  meta-analysis  of  data  from  2022  to

2025,  the  average  increase  in  carbon               stock               can  reach               45-60               tC/ha

after  interventions  in  key  locations  like               South  Sulawesi,  Aceh,               and

Central Java.  This increase in carbon stock               aligns               with a reduction in

carbon  emissions  due  to  mangrove  deforestation.  Studies  by

Hendarto  (2023)  and  Harrahap  (2024)  reinforce  these  findings,

highlighting  that  the  largest  carbon  stocks  are  found  in  locations

implementing  silvofishery  or  agroforestry               mangrove  practices.               The

following  vis ualization compares  blue  carbon               stock               before               and               after

interventions in three major regions.

A

Figure 2 Script (Python-matplotlib, bar chart):

Figure 1 Script (Python-matplotlib, bar chart): 

Figure 1 clearly shows a significant increase in               blue               carbon stock

across  all  locations  following  ecosystem-based  interventions,

demonstrating  the  effectiveness  of  restoration  and  conservation

programs for climate change mitigation.This visual evidence supports

the  argument  that  mangrove  restoration  not  only  contributes  to

environmental  sustainability  but  also               plays               a               crucial               role               in               carbon

management strategies.

 The marked increase in carbon storage underscores the potential

of these ecosystems as powerful allies  in combating climate               change.

Furthermore,  these  findings  advocate  for  the  scaling  up  of  such

interventions globally, highlighting the urgent need for investment in

mangrove conservation as part of broader environmental policies. By

prioritizing  these  natur e-based  solutions,               we               can               make               meaningful

progress towards achieving climate action goals while simultaneously

enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. 

3.2 Impact of  Mangroves on  Fisheries               Productivity and

Food Security  

An increase in mangrove cover directly correlates positively with

increased fish catch and fishermen's income. Field data from 2022 to

2025  indicate  a  rise  in  fish  catch  by  up  to  35%  in  areas  where

mangrove vegetation restoration is conducted. Community activities

such as silvofishery have also proven to enhance food diversification

and income, particularly in Aceh and South Sulawesi (Sebayang 2024;

Harrahap 2024).  

Introduction to Table 2:

Table  2  summarizes  the  data  on  fish               catch               increases               in               several

locations after interventions.

Table 2 summarizes the data on fish catch increases in several locations after interventions

Location  

Intervention Type   

Fish Catch Increase (%)   

Source  

South

Sulawesi  

Mangrove Restora tion  

25  

Hendarto 2023  

Aceh  

Silvofishery  

32  

Sebayang 2024  

Central Java  

Conservation   

20  

Harrahap 2024  

Explanation:

The data illustrate that  mangrove  interventions play               a crucial               role               not

only  in  carbon  mitigation  but  also  significantly  support  coastal

community food security by increasing fish catch.                

3.3  Trends  and  Research  Collaboration               on               Mangroves,

Blue Carbon, and SDGs 

Bibliometric  analysis   using  CiteSpace               and               VOSviewer               s              hows               a               sharp

increase  in  research  intensity  since  2022,  with  three               main  clusters:

Sungkawati E et al Blue Carbon and Food Security: A Systematic Review of Mangrove Ecosystem               Services for SDG 13

carbon  sequestration,  food  security,  and  SDG  policies.  The  most

research  collaborations  occur  between  institutions  in  Indonesia,

Malaysia,  and  Brazil,  with  key  terms  such  as  "blue  carbon,"  "food

security," "mangrove," "SDG 13," and "SDG 2" (X. Chen               et al., 2024;

Sungkawati, 2024a; Sungkawati & Uthman, 2024b)

Figure 3:rends and Research Collaboration on Mangroves, Blue Carbon, and SDGs

Figure 2 illustrates the  close relationship between the themes of blue

carbon,  mangroves,  and  SDGs,  affirming  the  strategic  position  of

mangroves  in  the  global  agenda  for  climate  mitigation  and  food

security.  This  visualization  underscores               the               importance               of mangroves

as  a  critical  component  in  achieving               Sustainable               Development               Goals.

As  natural  safeguards,  they  offer  robust  blue  carbon  storage

capabilities  while  simultaneously  bolstering  fisheries  and  local

economies,  thereby  addressing  both  environmental  and  social

objectives. 

Through the integration of various research clusters, Figure 2 highlights

how  mangroves  serve  as  a  nexus  for               interdisciplinary               collaboration,

with  their  role  extending  beyond  ecological  benefits  to  include

significant  socio-economic  impacts.  This               reinforces               the  necessity               for

cohesive  policy  frameworks  that  not  only  protect  these  vital

ecosystems  but  also  leverage  their               full               potential               in               advancing               global

sustainability targets. 

The  interplay  of  these  themes  illustrates               the               imperative               for               targeted

investments  and  strategic  partnerships,  ensuring  that  mangrove

conservation is prioritized in bot h national and international               agendas.

By  fostering  a  deeper  understanding  of               their  multifaceted               benefits,

stakeholders  can  drive  impactful  initiatives  that  align  with  broader

environmental  and  development  goals,  paving  the  way  for               a  more

sustainable future. 

3.4 Findings on Gaps and Field Challenges 

Research also identifies implementation  gaps in policy and challenges

such as the lack of cross-sectoral synergy, limited economic incentives,

and  low  community  participation  in               conservation.               Spatial               monitoring

data  and  impact  evaluations  remain  limited,  particularly  in  coastal

areas with high land transformation. 

Introduction to Table 3:

Table 3 outlines the main gaps and challenges based on literature review and field data

Gap/Challenge  

Indicator  

Location  

Source  

Lack of cross-sectoral

synergy  

Integration score < 50%  

Indonesia  

Hendarto 2023  

Insufficient economic

incentiv es  

Low participa tion  

Sumatra, Java  

Harrahap 2024  

Limited monitoring data  

Minimal spatial data  

ASEAN  

Analysis .csv  

Explanation:

The biggest challenge is t he weak cross-sectoral synergy and economic

incentives,  along  with  limited  spatial               monitoring               data,               which               hinders

the  optimization  of  mangrove  ecosystem  benefits.To  effectively

address  these  challenges,  it  is  crucial  to  f              oster  a  collaborative

environment  where  different  sectors,  including  environmental,

agricultural,  and  economic  agencies,  can  work  together  seamlessly.

Establishing  a  centralized  platform  for  data  sharing  and  policy

development  can  enhance  synergy.  Moreover,  implementing

economic incentives such as payment for ecosystem services (PES) can

motivate  local  communities  to  engage  in  conservation  efforts.

Improving  spatial  monitoring  through  advanced  technologies  like

satellite  imaging  and  GIS  can  provide  accurate  data  to  guide  and

evaluate mangrove management practices. By addressing these issues,

we  can  better  harness  the  multifunctional  benefits  of  mangrove

ecosystems,  contributing  significantly  to  climate  action  and  food

security goals. 

3.5 Implications and Recommendations 

Research  findings  confirm  that  integrated  mangrove  management

significantly contributes to carbon storage and food security. However,

success  in  the  field  requires  strong  cross              -sectoral  policies,  tangible

economic incentives, and data-driven spatial               monitoring systems. Key

recommendations  include  strengthening  multi-sector  collaboration,

enhancing  spatial  monitoring  capacity,               and               involving               communities               in

results-based  conservation  incentive  models.To  implement  these

recommendations  effectively,  it  is  crucial  to               establish               platforms  for

dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders from different               sectors,

including  environmental  agencies,  fisheries,  local  governments,               and

community  organizations.  Creating  collaborative  networks  can

facilitate  the  sharing  of  knowledge               and               resources,  ensuring               that               all

parties  are  aligned  in  their  efforts               to               conserve               and               restore               mangrove

ecosystems. 

Enhancing  spatial  monitoring  capacity               involves               investing               in               advanced

technologies like remote sensing and GIS to track changes in mangrove

cover  and  assess  the  effectiveness  of               conservation               efforts               over               time.

This  data-driven  approach  will  provide  accurate  and  timely

information, guiding policy adjustments and resource allocation. 

Engaging  communities  through  results-based               conservation               incentive

models  can  motivate  local  participation  in  mangrove  protection.

Sungkawati E et al Blue Carbon and Food Security: A Systematic Review of Mangrove Ecosystem               Services for SDG 13

Programs  such  as  payments  for  ecosystem  services  (PES)  or

community-based  silvofishery  initiatives               can               offer               economic               benefits

to  those  involved,  thus  aligning  conservation  goals               with               community

livelihoods. 

By  focusing  on  these  areas,  stakeholders  can  create  a  supportive

environment  for  mangrove  conservation,  ensuring  that  thes              e  vital

ecosystems  continue  t o  provide  their  essential  services  for  climate

mitigation  and  food  security.  The  integration  of  robust  policy

frameworks,  technological  advancements,  and  community

engagement  w ill  be  key  to  realizing  the               f              ull  potential  of               mangrove

ecosystems as nature- based solutions for sustainable development. 

DISCUSSION AND ANA LYSIS OF RESEARCH                

In this section, the discussion and analysis focus on placing the research

findings  within  the  context  of  existing  literature,  highlighting

theoretical and  practical contributions, and identifying limitations and

recommendations  for  future  research.  Visualizations                             and  tables  are

used to support analysis and arguments. 

4.1  Comparison  of  Research  Findings  with  Previous

Studies 

The  findings  of  this  research  confirm  that  the  conservation  and

restoration of mangroves significantly enhance blue carbon stocks and

fish  catch,  aligning  with  studies  by               Hendarto               (2023),               Harrahap               &               da

Silva  Santiago  (2024),  and  Sebayang  &  Baroud  (2024),  which  also

highlight  the  benefits  of  mangrove  ecosystems  in  climate  change

mitigation  and  food  security.  However,  this  research  provides  an

update by mapping direct relationships between mangrove ecosystem

services,  achieving SDG 13 (climate), and SDG 2 (food security), which

previous  studies  had  examined  separately.               Studies               by               Ajibade               et               al.               

(2023)  and  Martinho  &  Guiné  (2021)               emphasize               the               importance  of

cross-sectoral  integration,  but  this  research  finds  that  field

implementation  still  faces  challenges               in               policy               synergy               and               economic

incentives.  Thus,  this  research  not               only               strengthens               previous               findi              ngs               

but also fills a literature gap with an integrative approach and t              he latest

empirical evidence .

Figure 4 compares blue carbon stocks and fish catch

Figure  1  below  depicts  a  comparison  of  blue  carbon  stock

increases  and  fish  catch  between  this  study  and  earlier  research,

illustrating  that  the average values  observed               in this research exceed

those  found  in  previous  studies.  This               highlights               the               effectiveness               of

the  integrative  approach  employed.The  visual  representation  in

Figure  1  provides  compelling  evidence  of  the  significant

advancements  achieved  through  the  integrative  management  of

mangrove ecosystems. By comparing the blue carbon stock increases

and  fish  catch  data  with  earlier  studies,               it               becomes               clear  that  the

strategies  implemented  in  this  research  have  resulted  in  superior

outcomes.  This  success  can  be  attributed  to  the  comprehensive

approach  that  simultaneously  addresses  ecological  and  economic

objectives,  showcasing  the  potential  for  mangroves  to  serve  as  a

robust nature-based s olution for climate action and food security. 

The  increased  blue  carbon  stock  underscores  the  enhanced

ability of these ecosystems to sequester carbon, thereby contributing

to climate change mit igation efforts. Meanwhile, the rise in fish catch

points  to  the  positive  impact  on  local               fisheries,               providing               not               only               a

boost to local economies but also supporting the nutritional needs of

coastal  communities.  These  findings  reinforce  the  argument  for

adopting  holistic  conservation  strategies  that  integrate

environmental  and  economic  goals,  paving  the  way  for  more

sustainable development practices. 

As  stakeholders  continue  to  prioritize  and  implement  such               

integrative  approaches,  the  potential  for               mangrove               ecosystems               to

contribute  to  the  Sustainable  Development  Goals  becomes

increasingly evident. By fostering collaborative efforts and leveraging

scientific  evidence,  we  can  optimize  the  benefits  of  mangrove

conservation, ensuring that these vital ecosystems continue to thrive

and support resilient coastal communities. 

4.2 Theoretical Implications of Research Findings 

Theoretically, these findings reinforce and expand the concept of

ecosystem  services  and  the theory               of               socio-ecological               systems.               This

research  confirms that  mangroves  not               only               function as               carbon sinks

but  also  as  a  f oundation  for  coastal  community  food  security,

supporting  the  multi-functionality  theory  of  ecosystems  in

sustainable  development.  By  positioning  mangroves  as  a  nature-

based  solution  that  connects  two  development               goals               (climate               and

food),  this  research  encourages  the  development  of  theories

integrating  cross-SDGs  and  resilience  systems  in  natural  resource

management. This aligns with the theoretical frameworks of van der

Lee  et  al.  (2022)  related  to  resilience               assessment               and               Ajibade               et               al.

(2023) on SDG integration.Moreover, the research contributes to the

evolving  discourse  on  ecosystem  multifunctionality  by  illustrating

how  mangroves  exemplify  the  interconnectedness  of  ecological,

social,  and  economic  dimensions.  This               highlights               the               importance               of

viewing  ecosystems  not  just  as  isolated  entities,  but  as  dynamic

components  of  broader  socio-ecological               systems               that               influence               and

are influenced by human activity. 

The  integration  of  cross-SDGs  within  this  research  also

underscores  the  necessity  for  holistic               approaches               in               environmental

science and policy. By demonstrating how mangrove ecosystems can

simultaneously address multiple SDGs, the study advocates for a shift

towards  integrated  management  practices  that  prioritize  both

environmental  sustainability  and  human  well-being.               This  approach

resonates  with  emerging  theories  that               emphasize               the               resilience               of

eco-social  systems,  promoting  adaptive  management  strategies

capable of responding to complex global challenges.                

Furthermore,  the  research  offers  a  practical  framework  for

policymakers  and  practitioners  aiming  to  develop  synergistic

strategies  that  capitalize  on  the  multifunctional  benefits  of

ecosystems. By applying this integrative lens, stakeholders can design

Sungkawati E et al Blue Carbon and Food Security: A Systematic Review of Mangrove Ecosystem               Services for SDG 13

more  effective  interventions  that  not               only               protect               vital               ecosystems

like  mangroves  but  also  enhance               their               contributions               to               sustainable

development  goals (Çalışkan,  2025;  Liu et al.,               2024;               Mufungizi et al.,

2023).  

In  essence,  this  study  not  only  advances  theoretical

understanding  but  also  provides   actionable  insights  for               real-world

applications,  reinforcing  the  critical               role  of               mangroves  in               fostering

resilient and sustainable coastal communities. 

4.3 Practical and Policy Implications 

The  practical  implications  of  this  research  are  the  need  to

strengthen  cross-sectoral  policy  integration  between  environment

and  food,  and  the  design  of  concrete  ecosystem-bas              ed  economic

incentives. Local and national governments need to adopt mangrove

conservation strategies as part of climate change mitigation and food

security programs simultaneously. Incentive models such as payment

for  ecosystem  services  (PES)  and  silvofishery  programs  can  be

solutions t o incr ease community participation. These findings are also

relevant  for  the  development  of  spatial  data-based  monitoring

systems for policy  impact  evaluation (Y. Chen et               al., 2025;               Ge               et               al.,

2023; Perdana et al., 2025).  

Introduction to Table 1 

Table 1 below summarizes the key policy recommendations from the research

Policy Recommendations  

Target Actors  

Expected Impact  

Integration of mangrove conservation &

food  

Government/NGOs  

Increased carbon stock & fish catch  

Ecosystem-based economic incentives  

Local communities  

Increased conservation participation  

Spatial monitoring & data   

Government/academics  

Effective policy evalua tion  

Table  1  provides  a  concise  summary  of  the  key  policy

recommendations derived from this research, highlighting the target

actors  and  expected  impacts.  It  emphasizes  the  need  for  an

integration  of  mangrove  conservation  and  food  security  efforts,

targeting government bodies and NGOs, with the expected outcome

of increased carbon stock and fish catch. The table also advocates for

the  implementation of ecosystem-based               economic               incentives aimed

at  local  communities  to  boost  conservation  participation.

Additionally,  it  identifies  the  importance  of  enhancing  spatial

monitoring  and  data  collection,  directed  towards  government

agencies  and academics,  to  facilitate  effective policy               evaluation               and

ensure  the  long-term  success  of  mangrove  conservation               initiatives

(Ahmed & Twinomur inzi, 2025; Hendarto & Hiat, 2024; Twinomurinzi

& Ahmed, 2025).  These  recommendations are pivotal for leveraging

the  multifunctional  benefits  of  mangroves,  thus  contributing

significantly to climate action and food security goals. 

4.4 Research Limitations 

This  research  has  lim itations  in  the  scope  of               case  study  data,

predominantly  in  Southeast  Asia,  and  limited  access  to  detailed

spatial  data  in some regions. Additionally, potential               bias in               literature

selection  and  variation  in  analysis  methods  across  studies  pose

challenges  in  obtaining  a  fully  representative  synthesis.  These

limitations  may  affect  the  external  validity  and  reliability  of

generalizing  the  findings,  as  also  acknowledged  in  previous

systematic  reviews  (Ajibade  et  al.,  2023;  Martinho  &  Guiné,

2021).Addressing  these  limitations  requires  a  concerted  effort  to

expand  the  geographic  scope  of  future  research  to  include

underrepresented  regions  like  Africa  and  South  America,  where

mangrove  ecosystems  also  play  crucial  roles.  Incorporating  high-

resolution  spatial  data  and  adopting               mixed-method               approaches               can

enhance  the  robustness  of  the  findings  by  providing  a  more

comprehensive  understanding  of  the  socio-economic  impacts  of

mangrove conservation.  

Furthermore,  efforts  should  be  made  to  standardize  analysis

methods  and  carefully  curate  literature               to  minimize               bias,  ensuring

that the synthesis accurately reflects the global state of knowledge on

mangrove  ecosystem  services.  Collaborative  projects  involving

multinational  teams  could  facilitate  access               to               diverse               datasets               and

foster the exchange of  best practices, thereby               improving the quality

and applicability of the research. 

By  addressing  these  issues,  future  studies  can  provide  more

reliable  insights  and  strengthen  the  case  for  integrated  mangrove

management strategies  that  support sustainable development goals

across various contexts. 

4.5 Suggestions for Future Research 

Future research is recommended to expand the geographic scope

to  Africa  and  South  America,  increase  t              he  use  of  high-resolution

spatial data, and adopt mixed-method approaches to strengthen the

validity  and  understanding  of  broader  socio-economic  impacts.

Longitudinal  studies  and  multi-national  collaborations  are  also

encouraged  to  assess  the  sustainability  of  mangrove  ecosystem

benefits  in  the  long  term.  Additionally,               future               studies               should               delve

deeper  into  the  s ocio-cultural  aspects  of  mangrove  conservation,

exploring  how  local  traditions  and  practices               can               be               integrated               into

modern conservation strategies. Investigating               the role of indigenous

knowledge in mangrove management could provide valuable insights

and foster greater community engagement. 

Research  should  also  focus  on  developing               innovative               economic

models that incentivize conservation (Sudiantini et al., 2023), such as

community-led ecotourism or sustainable aquaculture initiatives that

complement  mangrove  restoration.  By  aligning  economic  benefits

with  conservation  goals,  these  models  could  enhance  local

participation and ensure long-term success. 

Moreover, examining the effects of climate change on mangrove

ecosystems in different  regions can help  identify adaptive               strategies

that  bolster  resilience.  Understanding  the  interplay  between

mangroves  and  other  coastal  ecosystems,  such  as  coral  reefs  and

seagrass  beds,  could  also  inform  integrated  coastal  management

practices. 

By  addressing  these  areas,  future  r              esearch               can               contribute               to               a

more  comprehens ive  understanding  of  mangrove  ecosystems,

ultimately  aiding  in  the  formulation  of  policies  that  support

sustainable development and the well-being of coastal communities

worldwide. 

4.6 Social and Economic Impact of Findings  

Socially, these findings  can  enhance awareness               and               involvement

of  coastal  communities  in  mangrove  conservation,  as  well  as

strengthen  local  food  security.  Economic  implications  include

increased  income  from  fisheries   and  potential  payments  for

ecosystem  services.  Policies  based  on  these  findings  have  the

potential  to  create  new  job  opportunities               in               ecosystem               restoration

and  sustainable  fisheries  sectors,  supporting  the  achievement  of

SDGs at local and national levels

Sungkawati E et al Blue Carbon and Food Security: A Systematic Review of Mangrove Ecosystem               Services for SDG 13

Figure 5: Visualization of the Social and Economic Impacts Based on the Research Findings Bibliometrik

The  visualization  in  Figure  2  effectively  illustrates  the  social  and               

economic impacts derived from the research findings, showcasing the

substantial  increase  in  key  socio-economic  indicators  following

mangrove intervention. This figure confirms the direct benefits to both

local communities and the broader economy, highlighting the positive

changes  brought  about  by  these  environmental  efforts.  Mangrove

intervention  has  been  pivotal  in  enhancing  livelihoods,  promoting

economic  growth,  and  fostering  sustainable               development               within               the

area.  The  data  clearly  demonstrates               improvements               in               areas               such               as

employment  opportunities,  income  levels,               and  resource               availability,

which are crucial for the well-being and prosperity of the communities

involved.  The  research  findings  underscore  the  importance  of

environmental conservation and  its potential to drive               socio-economic

progress.  As  the  figure  suggests,  investing  in  environmental

interventions  like  mangrove  restoration  not  only  benefits  the

ecosystem but also translat es into tangible economic advantages. This

alignment  of  ecological  health  with  economic  growth  presents  a

compelling  case  for  further  investment  in  similar  projects,  thereby

ensuring  long-term  sustainability  and  resilience  for  both  the

community and the local economy. Overall, the visualization serves as

a  testament  to  the  intertwined  relationship               between               environmental

health and economic prosperity, advocating for continued support and               

expansion of such initiatives.

CONCLUSION  

Mangrove  ecosystems  are  vital  to  achieving  the  Sustainable

Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and

SDG  2  (Zero  Hunger).  They  serve  as               significant  blue  carbon               sinks,

meaning  they  have  a  substantial  capacity  to  sequester  carbon

dioxide,  thus  mitigating  climate  change.  Additionally,  mangroves

support food security by enhancing fisheries productivity, providing a

crucial resource for coastal communities. 

The systematic review of research from 2022 to 2025 affirms that               

mangrove  conservation  and  restor ation  efforts  lead  to  enhanced

carbon sequestration  and  greater fish catches. This               dual               benefit not

only  contributes  to  the  reduction  of               greenhouse               gas               emissions               but

also boosts the income and food availability for those living in coastal

areas.  However,  despite  these  benefits,               there               is               a               noticeable               gap               in

policy  integration  that  connects  climate  change  mitigation  efforts