News
Socialization of the Results of the First Phase of the Mangrove Restoration Project
ESPOL and IPIAP, the project executors, presented the following results:
- A multi-temporal study of the mangrove cover in the area, analysing changes in cover, as well as mangrove loss and gain.
- Identification of key stakeholders to establish strategic alliances for sustainable mangrove management.
The findings were aligned with the *Strategy for the Conservation of Mangroves 2019–2030* under the National Plan for the Conservation of Mangroves in Continental Ecuador. The strategy comprises six components:
• Policies, instruments, legal procedures, and effective inter-institutional coordination.
• Sustainable use and productive alternatives.
• Recovery from environmental impacts.
• Applied scientific research.
• Education and communication.
• Financial sustainability.
Silvio Cabrera, Coordinator of the Macizo del Cajas Biosphere Reserve, reaffirmed the commitment of MangRes to proceed with a second phase of the project. This next phase will implement conservation strategies and secure the livelihoods of local communities that depend on mangrove resources.
The representatives of the three beneficiary organizations expressed gratitude and willingness to continue supporting the project, along with their commitment to assist in coordinating the upcoming MangRes regional meeting.
The UNESCO Mangrove Restoration Project (MangRes) is a crucial initiative for the conservation and rehabilitation of mangrove ecosystems. Mangroves play a vital role in protecting biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and ensuring the well-being of local communities. These ecosystems provide coastal protection against erosion and storms and serve as habitats for diverse marine and terrestrial species. However, urbanization, pollution, and deforestation have significantly degraded mangroves, threatening their capacity to deliver these essential benefits.
Through a science-based approach and community participation, MangRes aims to restore and protect mangroves while promoting sustainable management practices that involve local populations in conservation efforts. This project not only contributes to global environmental resilience but also strengthens the livelihoods of communities reliant on marine resources. By restoring mangroves, MangRes mitigates the impacts of climate change and fosters a sustainable future for generations to come.
During the meeting, it was announced that Ecuador will host the next MangRes Regional Meeting. Delegations from seven biosphere reserves will participate:
- Guanahacabibes Peninsula (Cuba)
- Seaflower (Colombia)
- Xirihualtique-Jiquilisco (El Salvador)
- Macizo del Cajas (Ecuador)
- La Encrucijada (Mexico)
- Darién (Panama)
- Noroeste Amotapes-Manglares (Peru)
The meeting is scheduled to take place in Guayaquil, Ecuador, from July 21 to 25, 2025.
