Mangrove Ecosystems

The International Day for Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystems, observed annually on 26th July, serves as a vital reminder of the urgent need to protect mangroves, which are disappearing at an alarming rate, 3-5 times faster than global forests. The day was officially adopted by UNESCO’s General Conference in 2015 to raise awareness about these vulnerable ecosystems and to promote their sustainable management, conservation, and use.

Mangroves:

• Mangroves are coastal ecosystems that consist of salt-tolerant trees and shrubs thriving in intertidal zones of tropical and subtropical regions. They are uniquely adapted to survive in saline, low-oxygen environments and play a crucial role in protecting coastal areas and supporting biodiversity.

  • Common species include Red Mangrove, Grey Mangrove, and Rhizophora.

  • Mangroves store carbon efficiently, contributing significantly to climate change mitigation.

  • They serve as nurseries for marine life and are home to a variety of species, including the Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodiles, and estuarine crocodiles.

Global Mangrove Degradation

• According to UNESCO and IUCN data, global mangrove cover has halved since 1985, and 50% of the remaining ecosystems are at risk of collapse. This loss is primarily driven by:

  1. Land conversion for agriculture, aquaculture, and urbanization.

  2. Pollution (e.g., oil spills and industrial effluents).

  3. Climate change, leading to sea-level rise and increasing cyclonic activity.

Significance of Mangroves

1. Carbon Sequestration:

   • Mangroves are extraordinary in their carbon storage capacity, storing up to 394 tonnes of carbon per hectare. This is much higher than most terrestrial forests, and their ability to lock carbon in saline soils makes them essential for climate mitigation.

2. Coastal Protection:

   • Mangroves act as natural barriers against storm surges, tsunamis, and coastal erosion. Their dense root systems absorb wave energy and stabilize shorelines, significantly reducing flood depths and wave energy during extreme storms.

3. Biodiversity Hotspots:

   • Mangrove ecosystems are home to 5,746 species (84% of which are animals) across 21 phyla in India alone, making it the most biodiverse mangrove region globally.

   • Mangroves also contribute to food security and livelihoods, supporting fishing industries and other coastal activities.

Mangrove Restoration: The Fishbone Technique

• One key restoration approach is the Fishbone Channel Technique, which aims to improve tidal flow in areas where it’s poor. This method involves:

  • Creating a central backbone channel and angled feeder channels to divert water from creeks, mimicking the natural creek system.

  • This improves salinity levels and water flow, creating a conducive environment for mangrove seedlings to thrive.

  • It enhances natural regeneration with minimal effort, making it a cost-effective restoration method.

Threats to Mangrove Ecosystems

1. Land Conversion for Agriculture: The conversion of mangrove forests for aquaculture and oil palm plantations is a significant driver of mangrove loss.

2. Pollution: Oil spills, plastic waste, and industrial effluents degrade mangrove ecosystems and hinder regeneration.

3. Climate Change: Sea-level rise and increased cyclone frequency are major threats, pushing mangrove ecosystems closer to extinction.

4. Invasive Species: Non-native species, such as Prosopis juliflora, threaten the integrity of native mangrove habitats by altering soil salinity and preventing natural regeneration.

India's Mangrove Cover and Conservation Efforts

• Mangrove cover in India stands at around 4,992 sq. km (0.15% of the country’s total land area), with West Bengal and Gujarat hosting the largest mangrove regions.

• India is taking active steps to conserve and restore mangrove ecosystems, including:

  • MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes), aimed at both restoration and livelihood generation.

  • Vana Samrakshana Samitis in Andhra Pradesh involve local communities in mangrove protection.

  • Increased government funding for mangrove plantation efforts and eco-tourism promotion to ensure sustainable livelihoods.

Key Initiatives for Mangrove Conservation

1. Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC): Focuses on international cooperation for mangrove conservation and climate change mitigation.

2. Mangroves for the Future (MFF): A regional initiative aimed at building awareness and fostering conservation actions.

3. Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Rules: India has stringent regulations to safeguard mangroves from urbanization and industrial activities.

4. National Coastal Mission and CAMPA Funds: These initiatives are designed to support the protection and restoration of coastal ecosystems, including mangroves.

The Way Forward

1. Strengthen Legal Frameworks: Implement stronger laws to prevent deforestation and pollution in mangrove areas, and ensure enforcement of coastal zone regulations.

2. Community Participation: Engage local communities in conservation through initiatives like "adopt a mangrove" and sustainable livelihood programs.

3. Research and Technology: Promote the use of drones and AI for real-time monitoring, and invest in medicinal research and phytoremediation (use of plants to clean polluted areas).

4. Bio-restoration: Focus on rehabilitating degraded mangrove areas using native species and ensuring the long-term resilience of ecosystems.

5. Sustainable Development: Integrate mangrove ecosystems into coastal urban planning and sustainable aquaculture practices to promote long-term ecological health.

6. International Collaboration: Use global platforms such as the Ramsar Convention and Blue Carbon Initiative to encourage cross-border conservation efforts.

World Nature Conservation Day (28th July)

This day, observed just after the Mangrove Conservation Day, underscores the critical need for environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. It complements efforts like India's LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) initiative, which advocates for sustainable living and environmentally friendly practices.

Conclusion

Mangroves are irreplaceable ecosystems that provide climate mitigation, coastal protection, and biodiversity support. However, they are under severe threat from human activities and climate change. Strong conservation efforts, community involvement, and international collaboration are needed to ensure the protection and restoration of these invaluable ecosystems. Their sustainability is integral not only for coastal areas but also for global climate resilience