On the 26th of July 2024, the world is coming together to celebrate International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem. This day, designated by UNESCO in 2015 and first celebrated in 2016, aims to raise awareness about the importance of mangroves and the urgent need to conserve these vital ecosystems.
Mangroves are incredible ecosystems found at the meeting point of land and sea. They are often referred to as the “superheroes” of the shoreline, playing a crucial role in the health and protection of coastal communities worldwide. These unique ecosystems support rich biodiversity, acting as a nursery habitat for fish and crustaceans, and acting as natural coastal defences against storm surges, tsunamis, and erosion. Mangroves are also highly effective carbon sinks, making them crucial in the fight against climate change.
Despite their importance, mangroves are disappearing at an alarming rate. In fact, they are disappearing three to five times faster than overall global forest losses, resulting in severe ecological and socio-economic impacts. According to UNESCO, some countries have lost more than 40% of their mangroves between 1980 and 2005.
Highlighting the importance of mangroves, Gavin Bruce, CEO of conservation charity International Animal Rescue, stated, “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. For this reason, we are working alongside coastal communities at the forefront of efforts to restore mangroves. Over the last 12 months, IAR has planted a total of 15,600 seedlings from 33 genera, covering 30 hectares.”
Thanks to the dedication and involvement of local communities, IAR’s initiative has seen a remarkable survival rate for planted seedlings. These efforts not only contribute to the restoration of mangrove ecosystems but also emphasize the vital role mangroves play in protecting coastal areas and supporting biodiversity.
However, Gavin Bruce emphasizes the urgent need for more action to protect and restore mangrove forests. “We are witnessing catastrophic changes in the weather, with severe flooding becoming a regular event. Mangroves are critical in the fight against climate change, stabilizing sediments and reducing wave energy to safeguard coastal farming communities. The severe consequences of mangrove loss include accelerated climate change due to the release of stored carbon, failed crops from seawater, and increased coastal erosion and flooding.”
On this International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, let’s change the narrative and recognize the irreplaceable value of mangroves 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.