We’ve all heard about the deadly climate change occurring across the globe. But maybe you don’t know about one type of tree that is vital to stopping it: the mangroves. Mangroves are a unique type of tree with extremely deep roots. They thrive along coastlines in tropical and subtropical regions and majorly contribute to the world’s biodiversity, coastal preservation, and oxygen and water purification.
Biodiversity
The vast network of roots is home to many different species of fish and birds. The shelter of their roots is a nursery and breeding area for many of these animals, as well. There are thousands of species that call mangrove systems their home, from one-inch Gobie fish all the way up to 10-foot sharks. This lush habitat ensures the protection of several endangered species and the wide range of fish provides a livelihood for many coastal communities.
Coastal Defense
Mangroves’ complex root systems also help hold the coastlines together and slow soil erosion. They are an essential protector for coastal communities, as they provide a defense from hurricanes and flooding. As climate change is progressing, more intense weather events are occurring, so it is now more important than ever to protect these strong, sturdy trees.
Purification
It is estimated that mangroves are responsible for 83% of the world’s carbon storage and they can store three to five times more carbon than tropical rainforests. Mangrove trees are paramount to slowing climate change caused by increased carbon emissions. Think of them as giant air filters, purifying our air from harmful gases. The same concept applies to the below them. Their dense roots trap sediment and other harmful pollutants, protecting the aquatic environment around them and allowing fragile vegetation such as seagrass and coral reefs to thrive.
Mangroves are important to our environment in so many ways, and they need to be protected in order to improve the future of this planet. Laws and policies have been enacted to ensure their preservation, and there are environmental organizations committed to protecting these vital trees. One such organization is the International Worldview Foundation. Based in Myanmar, their mission is to regrow lost mangrove forests and protect the earth from climate change.
Emma L
The Carbon Newsprint
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