Mangrove restoration as a nature-based solution in biosphere reserves in Latin America and the Caribbean
Mangroves are among the most productive ecosystems in the biosphere. These extraordinary ecosystems contribute to the well-being, food security and protection of coastal communities. In Latin America and the Caribbean, mangroves are also a precious resource for local communities, including Afro-descendant communities and Indigenous peoples living in coastal biosphere reserves.
In order to support communities in their mangrove restoration and conservation efforts, the Man and the Biosphere () Programme will implement over three years (2022-2025) the project 鈥淢angrove restoration as a nature-based solution in biosphere reserves in Latin America and the Caribbean鈥 (MangRes Project).
This project aims to carry out an assessment of the state of mangrove ecosystems and their restoration potential, as well as to implement restoration campaigns using local knowledge and science, promoting education for sustainable development.
By restoring and conserving mangroves in biosphere reserves, the project will contribute to the enhancement of ecosystem services provided by mangroves through their ability to capture and store carbon, their contribution to coastal protection, to resilience and to the sustainment of critical habitats for biodiversity and commercially important species.
Scientific cooperation
MangRes project activities will be supported by a scientific group composed of specialists from the participating countries and Flanders (Belgium), ensuring the exchange of knowledge and experience, as well as North-South and South-South collaboration.
The aim of the project is to assess the current state of mangrove ecosystems and support the design of conservation and restoration actions, based on scientific evidence and the local knowledge of communities that inhabit and live close to the seven biosphere reserves.
In addition, young scientists will be included in the working groups in order to train a new generation of mangrove restoration experts.
Project components
Biosphere reserves involved
MangRes fosters dialogue, aligns efforts, and restores hurricane-damaged mangroves with scientific guidance.
MangRes Project is restoring red mangroves, documenting local knowledge, and training reserve managers.
The reserve spans mountains to marine areas, uniting scientists, authorities, and locals to restore mangroves.
Authorities, scientists, and locals assess mangroves, strengthen governance, and promote youth participation.
The biosphere reserve restores mangroves, tackles invasive species, and builds youth networks.
Home to Ember谩-Wounaan, MangRes Project trains locals in mangrove restoration with nature-based solutions.
Restoring mangroves, supporting crab cooperatives, and promoting awareness in local communities.
Project Brochure
Learn more about the activities happening in each of the participating biosphere reserves.
With the support of
Government of Flanders of the Kingdom of Belgium, National Parks Autonomous Agency (OAPN), EarthNetwork
Partners
Flemish Marine Institute (VLIZ), The Flemish Interuniversity Council for University Development Cooperation (VLIR-UOS), the Jos茅 Benito Vives de Andr茅is Marine and Coastal Research Institute (INVEMAR) and the Ocean Teacher Global Academy (OTGA).