Review on mangrove restoration: Re-greening the sea coast

Abstract

Mangroves are important coastal resources that can provide exceptional ecosystem benefits. Several of its ecosystem functions, including sediment buildup, carbon sequestration, and storm surge protection, are being recognized as practical tools for climate change adaptation and mitigation. Its unique capacity to endure extreme environmental circumstances makes them; in particular, the only viable option for ecosystem-based adaptation in exposed coastal locations. Mangroves are among the most severely damaged tropical ecosystems, and they are continuing to disappear as a result of increased human activity. Especially in the Asia-Pacific region, where they exist in the form of complex socio-ecological systems, mangroves remain heavily threatened due to numerous anthropogenic activities. Mangroves are under grave danger; hence it is imperative that prompt steps be taken to methodically conserve and restore their ecosystems. The Asia-Pacific region is the location of nearly half of the existing mangroves, scattered over some of the poorest and post-conflict states. Dependence on traditional sources of income and the recent trend of coastal development have had a negative impact on the region's mangrove sustainability. Lacks of supportive policies and mangrove conversion to non-forest uses has been further fueled by insufficient institutional intervention. Nevertheless, in recent years, participatory, multi stake holder-based approaches for mangrove conservation and/or restoration have gained immense popularity in the region of Asia pacific. Participatory management which exemplifies an ameliorative approach can also support sustainable development, community empowerment, and social inclusion. Despite its asserted superiority, a number of new sustainability challenges need to be carefully examined and reconciled due to conflicting results of earlier experiences.