On this World Forest Day, we are reminded of the crucial role that forests play in sustaining life and controlling our planet’s climate. Rainforests are home to half of the earth’s biodiversity and are essential for preventing biodiversity loss. However, one type of forest is often overlooked – mangrove forests.
Mangroves are unique ecosystems found at the intersection of land and sea. They serve as vital habitats for a diverse range of species and act as natural coastal defenses against storms and rising sea levels. They are also highly effective carbon sinks, playing a crucial role in mitigating climate change.
Despite their importance, mangroves are disappearing at an alarming rate. According to UNESCO, some countries have lost more than 40% of their mangroves in the past 40 years. This has severe ecological and socio-economic impacts, as these forests also provide valuable resources for coastal communities.
In response to this issue, International Animal Rescue’s (IAR) partners in Indonesia, YIARI, have developed a community-driven mangrove restoration project. This project aims to protect the mangrove ecosystem and the livelihoods of coastal farming communities, whose crops can be destroyed by saltwater ingress. This, in turn, can lead to more destructive practices such as hunting and logging, which have a detrimental impact on wildlife and their habitats.
Gavin Bruce, CEO of IAR, emphasizes the importance of working with local communities to address deforestation and preserve these essential ecosystems. “By working together, we can both protect wildlife and empower communities while demonstrating how collective action produces sustainable outcomes that benefit nature and people,” he says.
Thanks to the partnership between IAR and YIARI, over 130,000 mangrove trees have been planted, and 300,000 hectares of forest have been protected. This has not only safeguarded important habitat for iconic species like orangutans but also prevented potential emissions of approximately 70 million tonnes of CO2e from entering the atmosphere.
The survival of countless rare and endangered species depends on forest conservation. If you would like to support this conservation program, you can visit www.internationalanimalrescue.org for more information. Let us all come together to protect our forests and the diverse life they support on this World Forest Day.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.