Mangrove forests, long a casualty of coastal development and aquaculture, are making a remarkable recovery across several continents. A comprehensive assessment published this week by the UN Environment Programme reveals that global mangrove cover has increased by nearly 5% over the past decade, the first sustained reversal of a decline that saw half of all mangroves destroyed since the 1970s.
The report, compiled from satellite imagery and field surveys in 112 countries, credits a combination of aggressive replanting programmes, stricter conservation laws, and natural regeneration. The most significant recoveries have occurred in Southeast Asia, where countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines have implemented moratoriums on shrimp farming in mangrove zones. In Latin America, Brazil and Colombia have restored thousands of hectares by removing illegal aquaculture ponds.
Mangroves are critical to coastal protection, absorbing storm surges and stabilising shorelines. They also sequester carbon at rates up to four times higher than terrestrial forests, making them a vital tool in climate mitigation. The report estimates that the restored mangroves now store an additional 200 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.
However, the recovery is fragile. Coastal development pressures remain high, and rising sea levels pose an existential threat. The report warns that even the current gains could be wiped out if climate change accelerates. Nations are being urged to integrate mangrove restoration into their national climate adaptation plans and to ensure local communities benefit from conservation.
Environmental groups have cautiously welcomed the findings. Mangrove Action Project director Alfredo Quarto said: "This is a significant milestone, but we cannot be complacent. We have seen similar recoveries reverse in the past."
The assessment will form the basis of discussions at next month's World Summit on Coastal Ecosystems in Nairobi.
