Mangroves have gained renewed attention in 2025 for their crucial role in protecting coastlines and supporting economies amid rising climate threats. Despite their importance, these ecosystems have often been overlooked in policy and planning. New approaches combining technology, community involvement, and citizen science are reshaping mangrove conservation and management.
Technological Advances in Mangrove Mapping
Recent progress in satellite imaging, drones, and Artificial Intelligence has enhanced mangrove mapping accuracy. These tools help quantify blue carbon storage and ecosystem services. For example, the Sundarbans’ mangroves provide carbon sequestration valued at ₹462 million annually. Accurate data supports better policy decisions and restoration strategies. Technology reveals the true economic worth of mangroves, which ranges from millions to billions of rupees depending on the region.
Community-Led Conservation Efforts
Local communities, especially fisherfolk, depend heavily on mangroves for fish nurseries and livelihoods. Community participation ensures sustainable management and equitable benefits. In urban areas like Mumbai and Chennai, mangroves face pollution and degradation, harming biodiversity and livelihoods. Empowering communities to protect mangroves encourages stewardship and resilience. Alternative livelihoods such as aquaculture, beekeeping, and eco-tourism can also emerge from healthy mangrove ecosystems. Models like Eco-Development Committees promote shared ownership and responsibility.
Citizen Science and Stakeholder Engagement
Citizen science initiatives engage diverse groups in monitoring mangrove health. This approach supplements formal assessments and raises public awareness. Key indicators include mangrove area changes, freshwater flow quality, and biodiversity levels. Platforms like Mangrove Mitras connect urban and rural stakeholders, encouraging hands-on conservation. Such involvement strengthens the bond between people and nature, promoting long-term ecosystem protection.
Policy and Economic Recognition
Mangroves must be recognised as critical climate and economic infrastructure, not just biodiversity zones. Their role in mitigating floods, cyclones, and erosion underpins coastal security. Integrating scientific data, business interests, and community voices is essential for sustainable stewardship. A collaborative coalition can ensure mangrove ecosystems continue to provide vital services and economic benefits in the face of climate change.
Questions for UPSC:
- Point out the role of blue carbon ecosystems in climate change mitigation and how they contribute to economic resilience.
- Underline the importance of community participation in natural resource management with suitable examples from coastal ecosystems.
- Critically analyse the impact of technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence and satellite data on environmental conservation and policy formulation.
- Estimate the challenges and opportunities in integrating ecosystem services valuation into national economic planning and climate policy frameworks.
