Mangroves offer a vital shield against climate change

Source: The post is based on the article “Mangroves offer a vital shield against climate change” published in “Live Mint” on 11th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Environment conservation

News: In this article author emphasizes the importance of mangrove forests in India for environmental protection, biodiversity, livelihoods, and climate change mitigation. He also urges for their conservation and responsible management, while highlighting the threats they face and successful restoration efforts.

What is the importance of mangrove forests in India?

1. Natural Protection: Mangroves act as barriers against erosion, storms, and cyclones. They provide over $7.8 billion in flood protection benefits annually.
2. Biodiversity Hub: India’s mangroves are home to diverse species. The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, shelters the Bengal tiger and Ganges river dolphin.
3. Livelihoods: Mangroves support 900,000 fisher households in India, aiding artisanal fisheries and boosting local incomes. Tourism potential in regions like the Sundarbans is significant.
4. Environmental Filters: Mangroves improve water quality by trapping sediments and pollutants, benefiting marine ecosystems.
5. Climate Change Combatants: They sequester large amounts of CO2, with global mangroves storing 22.86 metric gigatonnes, roughly half the yearly CO2 emissions from various sources.

What threats are mangrove forests facing?

1. Rapid Disappearance: Since 1996, global mangrove coverage has declined by 11,700-sq km, equivalent to three times the size of Goa. South and Southeast Asia are witnessing the most significant mangrove loss.
2. Human Activities: 62% of mangrove loss is due to farming, aquaculture, and infrastructure development.
3. Extreme Weather: Though mangroves can recover from natural events like cyclones, human-induced changes, especially coastal modifications, can cause permanent damage.
4. Global Warming: Rising temperatures and other impacts of climate change pose challenges to mangrove ecosystems.
5. Inappropriate Restoration: Taking a cue from Sri Lanka’s experience, planting the wrong seedling in unsuitable conditions can reduce plant survival chances by over 50%.
6. Economic Growth: India’s push for economic growth sometimes comes at the expense of environmental conservation, potentially threatening mangroves

What should be done?

Protection and Restoration: Safeguard and restore mangroves to combat air pollution and secure coasts.

Community Involvement: Engage local communities for sustainable livelihoods, as seen in the Sundarbans region.

Adopt Successful Models: Emulate states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Odisha which have increased mangrove cover. Such as, establish dedicated conservation units similar to Maharashtra’s mangrove and coastal biodiversity conservation unit.

Government Initiatives: Support efforts like MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats& Tangible Incomes), aiming to conserve mangroves across 13 states and Union territories.

Collaborative Approach: Foster teamwork among government officials, scientists, and communities.