Mangroves

They thrive along sheltered coastlines in tropical and subtropical regions, with some species extending into temperate zones. Mangroves are vital to coastal ecosystems, covering an area of 81,500–152,400 km² globally — roughly the size of England — with 75% concentrated in just 15 countries. Indonesia alone accounts for 23% of the world’s mangroves due to its extensive coastline and humid climate. Their role in stabilizing coastal sediments, sustaining biodiversity, and mitigating climate change is both invaluable and increasingly recognized.

Mangrove Metrics

Up to Four Times More Carbon than Rainforests

Mangroves are highly efficient carbon sinks, storing up to four times more carbon per unit area than tropical rainforests. Their waterlogged soils trap carbon for centuries.
66% Reduction in Wave Heights

Mangroves act as natural barriers, reducing wave height by as much as 66%, shielding coastlines from erosion, storms, and flooding.
62% of Mangrove Loss Due to Land-Use Changes

Between 2000 and 2016, an estimated 62% of global mangrove losses were driven by land-use changes, mainly due to conversion for aquaculture and agriculture.

Key Benefits of Mangroves

Carbon Sequestration
Mangroves are among the world’s most effective carbon sinks. By storing significant amounts of carbon in their biomass and waterlogged soils, they play a key role in long-term carbon capture, making them essential in the fight against climate change.
Coastal Protection
Acting as natural barriers, mangroves reduce wave height by up to 66%, protecting against erosion, storms, and flooding. Their roots, trunks, and canopies form a physical barrier that also helps mitigate sea-level rise.
Biodiversity Hotspots
Mangroves support a wide range of species, including birds, reptiles, and marine life such as fish, crustaceans, and even large animals like dolphins and tigers. This unique positioning at the land-sea interface makes them critical habitats for many threatened species.
Water Quality Improvement
By trapping sediments, nutrients, and pollutants, mangrove roots help maintain the health of adjacent ecosystems such as coral reefs and seagrass beds.
Fisheries Support
Mangrove ecosystems function as critical breeding and nursery grounds for fish and crustaceans, directly supporting both commercial and subsistence fishing industries.
Tourism and Recreation
Mangroves attract eco-tourism activities such as birdwatching, kayaking, and nature photography, which benefit local economies and promote environmental awareness.
Economic and Medicinal Resources
Local communities rely on mangroves for wood, honey, and medicinal uses derived from their bark and leaves.

Threats to Mangroves

Coastal Development
Aquaculture
Agriculture
Pollution

Climate Change
Overharvesting
Invasive Species
Hydrological Changes
Salinity Changes

Taking Action to Restore Mangroves

Protect Existing Forests
Mangrove Planting
Address Land Use Practices
Promote Natural Regeneration
Address the Drivers of Loss

Marine Spatial Planning
Community Engagement
Financial Incentives
Research and Monitoring
International Collaboration

Credits

Carlos Duarte
Vanesa Chalastani
Letizia Valluzzi

Latest Stories

View All

Elevating Blue Tech: Increasing Awareness and Driving Growth

Investing in blue tech is essential for preserving the health of our oceans and coastal areas, which are crucial for economic, social, and environmental resilience.