Desk-Based Scoping and Readiness Assessment for Coastal Wetlands in Nova Scotia Phase 0 is a preparatory research phase designed to establish the scientific, methodological, and strategic foundations required to implement a robust regional blue carbon baseline in Nova Scotia coastal wetlands.

Rather than generating new field data, this phase focuses on ensuring that subsequent field-based research is scientifically optimized, policy-relevant, and funder-ready. Through a comprehensive desk-based assessment, Phase 0 compiles and synthesizes existing scientific knowledge, spatial datasets, and environmental information relevant to carbon storage in coastal wetlands. This work supports the identification of priority study sites, validation of sampling approaches, and alignment of research design with provincial, federal, and international climate and conservation frameworks.

The phase therefore reduces scientific and financial risk by ensuring that future investments in field research are proportionate, defensible, and strategically targeted. A central objective of Phase 0 is to contextualize blue carbon science within the unique ecological and geomorphological conditions of Nova Scotia. The province’s diverse wetland typologies, complex tidal regimes, and legacy of coastal land modification require careful pre-field analysis to ensure representative and credible baseline design.

By integrating spatial analysis, literature review, policy assessment, and preliminary stakeholder mapping, Phase 0 generates a decision-ready knowledge package that can guide the next stage of implementation. Importantly, this phase is conceived as a stand-alone contribution to coastal climate knowledge. Its outputs provide immediate value to governments, conservation organizations, coastal communities, and research partners by strengthening the evidence base for ecosystem protection, restoration prioritization, and climate-informed planning.

At the same time, Phase 0 produces a complete implementation-ready framework for Phase I, including refined site selection logic, validated methodological assumptions, and a funding-grade project package.

By the conclusion of Phase 0, Blue Maritimes aims to deliver a scientifically credible and strategically aligned pathway for advancing blue carbon research in Atlantic Canada. This work supports long-term climate resilience, enhances institutional readiness for collaborative research initiatives, and contributes to positioning Nova Scotia as an emerging reference point for applied coastal climate science.