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[Research News] Conveying the Concept of Blue Carbon in Japanese Media: A New Study Provides Insights

A new study reveals that Japanese media highlights the significance and potential of blue carbon, underemphasizing its limitations and risks

Blue carbon, referring to the carbon captured and stored in marine and coastal ecosystems, is often considered as a crucial factor for environmental conservation strategies. Masu Taichi, Assistant Professor of the Harris Science Research Institute and Abe Yasuhito, Associate Professor of Faculty of Social Studies examined how the concept of blue carbon, along with its potential benefits and risks, is communicated in Japanese television programs and newspapers. The study highlights the need for effective communication strategies to increase awareness and felicitate the development of informed policies.  

Reference
Taichi Masu, Yasuhito Abe, Conveying blue carbon as a scientific concept: A content analysis of Japanese television and newspapers, Marine Policy, Vol. 186, April 2026, 107028
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2025.107028

For more details, please see the website of Organization for Research Initiatives and Development, Doshisha University. 
https://research.doshisha.ac.jp/news/news-detail-90/

This achievement has also been featured in the “EurekAlert!.”
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1114322

Title: Conveying the blue carbon concept via Japanese television and newspaper media
Caption: Effective science communication can help to develop adequate understanding of the blue carbon concept by the general people, leading to promotion of sustainable marine activities. A new study reveals that Japanese media disproportionately addresses the key challenges and limitations of the blue carbon concept. The study highlights the importance of collaboration among policymakers, marine scientists, and media activists in conveying balanced narrative about the concept, communicating both the potentials and risks. 
Credits: Photo by Takashi Kimura, used with permission
Image license: Original Content
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