Protecting the planet and supporting local communities: Mangrove conservation for economic and environmental benefits
In the picturesque Raigad district, where Alibaug is located, lies a vast expanse of mangrove forests spanning over 21,000 hectares. These mangroves serve as more than just a natural habitat; they act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere, and as protectors against the impacts of climate change, such as unpredictable monsoons, rising tides, hurricanes, and tsunamis.
The recent hurricanes have sensitized the people about the importance of mangroves as a natural defense against calamities. Jayant Sarnaik, co-founder of the Applied Environmental Research Foundation (AERF), believes this to be true. Namdev Waitaram More, a village elder and expert on traditional fishing methods, is helping connect other community members with AERF to discuss salt marsh and mangrove conservation in the village.
Conservation agreements will provide sustained support to village members in exchange for conserving the land and transitioning the local economy to one that relies on keeping the mangroves intact and healthy. Usha and her son, Tushar Thakur, are farmers from Hashiware, a village whose agricultural land has been submerged in salt water since the local dyke broke in 1990. Thakur was one of the first village members to sign a conservation agreement with AERF to protect the mangroves.
The region has experienced more frequent strong hurricanes, including Nisarga in 2020 and Tauktae in 2021. Mangesh Patil, a local fisherman, experienced the destruction of his home due to strong waves and high tides. These experiences have highlighted the protective role of mangroves, as demonstrated by the 2004 tsunami in Indonesia.
Apple has recently partnered with AERF to promote the protection and conservation of mangroves in Maharashtra, India. Apple's grant is supporting the purchase and distribution of portable airpods to prevent the cutting of mangroves for firewood. In the village of Ganesh Patti, families are working to protect the mangroves to safeguard their well-being and livelihoods.
Archana Godbole, director of AERF, has specialized in community-based conservation for the last 30 years. Her mission is to achieve conservation through people's participation on the ground and build resilience against climate change. Bhavik Patil, a local fisherman, is helping AERF navigate discussions in villages throughout Raigad.
Apple is committed to efforts around the world that provide climate resilience and economic benefit to communities impacted by climate change. By supporting AERF's work, Apple aims to safeguard the future of these mangroves and the people who rely on them. After the destruction, many families continue to visit their old homes, fishing, and crab hunting in the waters of their childhood, demonstrating a deep connection to these vital ecosystems.
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