Eco Corner
International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, July 26th: Mangroves are rare, spectacular, and prolific ecosystems on the boundary between land and sea. These extraordinary ecosystems contribute to the wellbeing, food security, and protection of coastal communities worldwide. They support rich biodiversity and provide a valuable nursery habitat for fish and crustaceans. Mangroves also act as a form of natural coastal defense against storm surges, tsunamis, rising sea levels, and erosion. Their soils are highly effective carbon sinks, sequestering vast amounts of carbon. Despite their ecological and economic importance, mangrove forests are under threat. The causes of the disappearance of mangroves are very diverse: uncontrolled coastal development and mass tourism, desiccation of mangroves, indiscriminate deforestation, as well as climate change. The International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, adopted by the General Conference of UNESCO in 2015 and celebrated each year on 26 July, aims to raise awareness of the importance of mangrove ecosystems as “a unique, special and vulnerable ecosystem” and to promote solutions for their sustainable management, conservation, and uses. “The Day also serves as an opportunity to reflect on our personal commitment to climate and biodiversity conservation, and promotes global action by all for a sustainable future.” (UNESCO).
