Dr. Serina Rahman from NUS Shares Insights on Seagrass Ecosystems with Netherlands Maritime University College
On 08 November 2024, Netherlands Maritime University College hosted Dr. Serina Rahman, a researcher from the National University of Singapore (NUS) and co-founder of Kelab Alami, for an enriching session focused on the importance of seagrass ecosystems and their impact on both local communities and climate change mitigation.
Dr. Serina shared her knowledge on the vital role of seagrass in supporting the livelihoods of fishing communities. Seagrass meadows serve as essential habitats for numerous marine species, providing shelter and food that help sustain local fisheries. This support contributes directly to the livelihoods and food security of coastal communities that depend on fishing, highlighting seagrass as a crucial element for socioeconomic stability in these areas.
A key highlight of Dr. Serina’s talk was the role of seagrass in climate change mitigation. She emphasized how these underwater meadows function as significant “blue carbon” reservoirs, capturing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, often at rates comparable to or exceeding those of tropical forests. This natural carbon sequestration process helps reduce greenhouse gases, underscoring the importance of seagrass in global efforts to combat climate change.
This insightful program was made possible by the support and participation of dedicated lecturers from the Netherlands Maritime University College: Mr. Aiman Muqri Ahmad Shukri, Mr. Ismail Masran, Ms. Farah Syazwani Hayrol Aziz, Ms. Syafiqah Pauzee, and Ms. Arina Kamarudin. Their collaboration and involvement reflect the university’s commitment to environmental education and sustainable practices.
The event provided students and faculty with an invaluable opportunity to deepen their understanding of marine ecosystems and their critical role in preserving both biodiversity and human communities. Dr. Serina’s expertise and passion left a lasting impact, inspiring attendees to consider new initiatives focused on marine conservation and sustainable development. This session underscores the university’s dedication to fostering partnerships that promote positive environmental change and contribute to a resilient future for all.
