PRESERVING MANGROVES IN COLOMBIA

A key strategy for combating climate change and promoting sustainable fishing

Not many ecosystems rival the carbon storing and sequestering ability of mature primary forests. However, mangroves and coastal wetlands are estimated to capture carbon even faster and store it in larger quantities than tropical forests. Because mangroves’ dense roots prevent soil erosion and help moderate water flow to the coast, these “blue carbon” sinks are being looked to for their potential to protect coastal areas during storms and floods, both of which are expected to increase due to climate change. Mangroves also provide important cultural and economic services to humans, as they serve as critical breeding and nursery habitat for fish. However, many marine areas around mangroves are at risk of being dangerously overfished as commercial fishing fleets compete with local communities for resources. In Colombia’s San Juan River Delta, Nature and Culture is working with the local environmental authority CODECHOCO, the Afro-Colombian community council ACADESAN, the Alexander von Humboldt Biological Resources Research Institute, WWF, the Marviva Foundation, and the Wildlife Conservation Society to protect 395,368 acres of marine and coastal wetland. The area is home to 6,741 people, and its declaration will improve communities’ access and rights to fisheries while allowing them to regulate catch seasons and methods without compromising their economies.

The San Juan Delta protected area will also connect with another 775,911-acre coastal and marine protected area in the Bajo Baudó watershed to the north.

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