Mangroves historically have been important links for preserving environmental damages at coastlines, underpins fisheries and acts as a natural buffer. Climate change is engulfing the world. As the “Blue carbon ecosystem”, mangroves are essential for better environmental resilience. Still rarely, prevention and promotion of this important species found place in active policy making and funds allocation. How can businesses imagine ecosystems as active drivers of sustainable growth and security? Governments need to plan giving due importance to mangrove forests? How can communities ensure this transition?
Satellite and Drone Based Mapping
Accurate Mapping of the mangroves via adaptive use of technology is crucial. It helps in identifying and understanding the value of this “natural capital.” It also aids in Blue Carbon Quantification. Research showcases the economic and ecosystem services valuation of mangroves ranges from Rs.3535 million in Pichavaram (Tamil Nadu) to Rs.664 billion in Sunderbans. Alone the valuation of carbon sequestration is valued at Rs.462 million per year in the Sunderbans. This reflects the ecological and economic importance of this crucial species.
Community Based Efforts
Communities that are directly dependent on mangrove forests for their livelihood must be prioritised. These communities have deep knowledge and must be socially and economically equitably benefitted. Community led conservation efforts for mutual growth of nature and human is a key factor. A symbiotic relationship must be strengthened. A healthy mangrove system helps in the catching of fisheries. It creates a network for easy catch.
The livelihood of these coastal communities is intrinsically dependent on mangrove forests. Usually in urban areas the importance of mangrove protection is less realised and therefore their existence is depleting. Once the community realises how mangroves protect coastal homes, they understand their importance. They see how mangroves provide clean air. Then, they can take motivated steps to conserve them. Mangroves also aid in beekeeping and aquaculture. Integrated ownership models include Eco development committees (EDCs). They can also involve Joint Forest management committees (JFMCs). These models can be entrusted for urban mangroves development.
A good mangrove health is linked to the health of other ecosystems and wetlands. It is also connected to the health of the rivers from the source to the sea. These contribute freshwater, sediments, and biota.
Platforms Representing Ecosystem Voices
Platforms such as “Mangrove Mitras” or friends of mangroves can be the open avenue. Here, urban citizens, the local population, and concerned authorities can discuss constructively about management needs and benefits. This would help in rewiring the people-wetland mangrove connections. A sustainable and symbiotic relationship naturally exists between ecozones and humans. Policymakers and businesses should recognise the importance of these mangroves as vital climate infrastructure. They should not see them as mere biodiversity zones. The mangroves are also significant economic infrastructure. Protection of these sensitive zones requires collaboration of science, businesses, and community voices altogether.
For all latest updates Follow theviralmail on X, Facebook, and Instagram
