The global decline of mangroves: is there a sustainable future?

Mangroves provide a range of ecosystem services currently valued at US$1.6 billion globally. For many coastal communities, mangrove ecosystems provide livelihoods, essential sources of protein and coastal protection. They are also important carbon stores and directly or indirectly support up to 80% of global fish catches. Despite their importance, around 1% of mangroves are being lost annually as a result of land development, pollution, demand for materials and climate change.

It is estimated that 20–35% of mangroves have been lost since 1980 and currently more than one in six mangrove species are at risk of extinction. However, a growing field of expertise in the restoration, rehabilitation and sustainable management of mangrove forests suggests that not all mangroves have to meet this fate. This meeting will bring together leading scientists to highlight the global importance of mangrove ecosystems, discuss threats to their existence and consider options for their future management, conservation and rehabilitation.