From Mangroves to Saltmarsh: My Blue Carbon Summer at St Andrews
Anoosha is a student from the University of Karachi who studied Blue Carbon: Science & Policy as part of St Andrews Summer Study 2025. Read some of her experiences as a Summer Study student in St Andrews.
Last summer, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Blue Carbon Summer programme at the University of St Andrews. It was my first time studying abroad, and the experience turned out to be far more enriching than I had imagined. The program brought together students united by a shared interest in blue carbon ecosystems and their role in mitigating climate change.
“The teachers were incredibly supportive and approachable, always encouraging us to ask questions and engage deeply with the subject”.
The cold Scottish breeze swept across Skinflats Saltmarsh as I stepped onto the spongy ground for the first time. Surrounded by vast green expanses stretching toward the Firth of Forth, I realized I was standing in an ecosystem I had only read about. Coming from a place where I had mostly seen mangroves, visiting a saltmarsh was a completely new experience for me. Collecting cores and sediment samples for the first time helped me understand how blue carbon science is studied in real settings.
The programme introduced me to the science behind blue carbon and helped me understand why protecting these ecosystems is so important and how they can contribute to climate finance efforts. Through morning lectures and afternoon lab sessions, I learned practical techniques such as sediment sampling, elemental analysis, and carbon stock estimation. What I appreciated most was how the discussions on different research publications encouraged me to see things from new perspectives. We explored the origins of stored carbon, discussed methodologies, and compared carbon sequestration rates.
The teachers were incredibly supportive and approachable, always encouraging us to ask questions and engage deeply with the subject. Their guidance helped me grasp complex concepts with ease and strengthened my overall understanding of blue carbon science.
“After days spent in classes and labs, the weekend offered a chance to experience Scotland’s cultural side and made it an unforgettable experience”.
Equally special was the bond we developed as a group. Despite coming from different parts of the world, we connected instantly, sharing meals and working on group assignments. After classes, we would explore the town together. It never felt like we had just met, and I am glad we have stayed in touch. I genuinely hope this growing network of young researchers helps strengthen global collaboration in blue carbon research.
After days spent in classes and labs, the weekend offered a chance to experience Scotland’s cultural side. I explored Edinburgh with friends, visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the National Museum of Scotland, the Scott Monument, and several other remarkable places. The city’s charm and history made it an unforgettable experience.
Overall, studying at St Andrews gave me more than just scientific knowledge. It offered a fresh perspective on how blue carbon fits into the larger picture of climate resilience. This experience deepened my commitment to continue working on coastal ecosystems back home and to contribute to the expanding dialogue on blue carbon science. I truly cherished my time at St Andrews.
Thank you to Anoosha for sharing her experiences. More information on our courses and how to apply can be found on the St Andrews Summer Study webpages or you can contact the team at [email protected].