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Bivalve molluscs contribute significantly to the carbon cycle by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from seawater and storing it in their calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) shells through biomineralization, helping to lower atmospheric CO₂ levels. Their biomass also acts as a reservoir of organic carbon, as biological activity and sediment deposition promote the long-term burial of organic matter. Although shell formation releases some CO₂, the overall impact of bivalve farming on carbon storage is positive, especially under well-managed environmental conditions (Heilweck et al., 2023).

According to Lalli et al. (2010), mussel farming systems can sequester significant amounts of "blue carbon," providing the dual benefit of food production and environmental protection.

Recent studies suggest that the expansion of bivalve aquaculture could be strategically employed as a nature-based solution to mitigate the impacts of climate change, complementing terrestrial carbon sequestration efforts.