CA AB2593

Authorizes the California Coastal Commission to approve and oversee blue carbon demonstration projects that restore coastal wetlands, seagrass beds, and other marine habitats to sequester carbon and inform the state's climate resilience strategies.

Defines blue carbon demonstration projects as restoration of degraded or removed coastal habitats in ecologically appropriate historic locations using diverse native species to restore ecosystem services.

Permits the Coastal Commission to require applicants with projects impacting coastal wetlands, subtidal, intertidal, or marine habitats to build or contribute to blue carbon demonstration projects.

Requires blue carbon demonstration projects to be designed with sufficient monitoring and data collection to demonstrate carbon uptake and sequestration, with results presented at public hearings.

Amends coastal development permit requirements for new development to minimize greenhouse gas emissions in addition to existing requirements for energy consumption and vehicle miles traveled.