On Saturday, July 26, 2025, the world will come together to celebrate the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the vital role that mangroves play in protecting our planet and the urgent need to conserve these critical ecosystems.
As the frequency and severity of flooding, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events continue to increase, one quiet hero stands guard at the water’s edge: the mangrove. These unique ecosystems support rich biodiversity, provide essential nursery habitats for fish and crustaceans, and act as natural coastal defences against storm surges, tsunamis, sea-level rise, saltwater intrusion, and erosion. Additionally, mangroves are highly effective carbon sinks, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Despite their crucial role, mangroves are being lost at an alarming rate, making their protection and restoration more urgent than ever. According to UNESCO, some countries have lost more than 40% of their mangroves between 1980 and 2005, and the global rate of loss is three to five times faster than overall forest losses.
Recognizing the value of mangrove restoration for both people and nature, International Animal Rescue’s partner in Indonesia, YIARI, has been working alongside coastal farming communities to develop a successful mangrove restoration initiative. Since 2021, over 50,000 seedlings have been grown and planted by local people, with a remarkable survival rate.
To mark the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, YIARI will be hosting a community event on July 26th, specifically targeting young people and children. The event aims to raise awareness about the importance of mangroves and their benefits for coastal farming communities. Activities will include presentations, practical sessions on growing and nurturing seedlings, a hands-on planting exercise, and a beach clean-up to highlight the impact of plastic waste on marine ecosystems.
Gavin Bruce, CEO of conservation charity International Animal Rescue, emphasized the urgency of protecting mangroves in the face of climate change: “We are witnessing catastrophic changes in the weather, with severe drought, storms, and flooding becoming a regular occurrence. What were once-in-a-century events are now happening annually. Mangroves stabilise sediments, reduce wave force, and shield farmland from saltwater intrusion. Without them, coastal communities face failed crops, accelerating erosion, and mass displacement.”
He also stressed the importance of community-led conservation efforts, stating, “It is widely recognised that conservation strategies led by local communities are the most sustainable and impactful.” YIARI’s community event on World Mangrove Day is a perfect example of how these efforts can benefit both people and nature.
In 2025 alone, YIARI’s community mangrove restoration project has already planted over 5,750 seedlings, with a target of over 10,000 for the year. As we mark the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, let us recognize the irreplaceable value of mangroves and take action to protect them before it’s too late.
For more information, 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.