On World Wetlands Day, which is celebrated every year on 2nd February, the world’s attention is drawn to the importance of wetland ecosystems, specifically mangroves. These often-overlooked ecosystems, located at the intersection of land and sea, are crucial for the health of our planet.
Mangroves are often referred to as the “superheroes” of the shoreline ecosystem due to their significant contributions to the wellbeing, food security, and protection of coastal communities worldwide. These ecosystems support rich biodiversity and act as natural coastal defences against storms, tsunamis, rising sea levels, saltwater intrusion, and erosion. Additionally, they are highly effective carbon sinks, sequestering large amounts of carbon and playing a crucial role in mitigating climate change.
However, despite their crucial role in maintaining the health of our planet, mangroves are disappearing at an alarming rate. According to current estimates, mangrove coverage has been halved in the past 40 years, with some countries losing more than 40% of their mangroves between 1980 and 2005.
Gavin Bruce, CEO of conservation charity International Animal Rescue (IAR), stresses the importance of preserving and restoring mangrove ecosystems. He states, “Mangroves are in danger, and it has been estimated that more than three-quarters of the world’s mangroves are under threat along with all the aquatic and land organisms that depend on them.” IAR’s partner organization, YIARI in Indonesia, is working to preserve and restore one of the largest and most diverse coastal mangrove systems in the world. In the past 12 months alone, YIARI has planted 15,600 seedlings from 33 genera, covering 30 hectares.
The success of YIARI’s efforts can be attributed to the passion and engagement of local communities. Their initiative has a remarkable seedling survival rate, contributing to the restoration of mangrove ecosystems and highlighting the role of mangroves in protecting coastal areas and supporting biodiversity.
Bruce emphasizes the urgent need to do more to protect and restore mangrove forests, stating, “We are witnessing catastrophic changes in the weather, with severe flooding becoming a regular event. Mangroves are critical in the fight against climate change, stabilising sediments and reducing wave energy to safeguard coastal farming communities.”
On this World Wetlands Day, let us recognize the irreplaceable value of mangroves and raise awareness for their conservation before it’s too late. To learn more, please visit www.internationalanimalrescue.org.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.