I work as an otter conservationist to reverse the decline of mangrove habitats in Vietnam and across the globe to restore biodiversity, protect livelihoods, and mitigate against the impacts of the climate crisis. Why mangroves matter - Superheroes of biodiversity Survival artists, nature’s kindergarten, climate savers – mangroves are versatile superheroes. They are habitat and nursery for over 3000 fish species, can store 3 to 5 times more carbon per area than tropical upland forests, and provide livelihoods for over 120 million people. But this unique ecosystem is under threat: more than a third of all mangrove forests have disappeared since the mid-20th century due to agriculture, logging, and urbanization. If deforestation rates continue, all mangroves could be lost by the end of this century. How do I protect and conserve mangroves? Our vision is a world in which thriving mangrove habitats exist in harmony with the communities they support. With a focus on Vietnam, the Save Ou...
Coral reefs around the world have been seriously degraded over the past 20 years and Vietnam’s are no exception. These ecosystems, which are vital to sustaining oceanic biodiversity, are very sensitive to changing ocean temperatures and destructive human activities. Experts warn that within 20 years, Vietnam may not have any left.
According to Merman Tiun, only 1% of the reefs along Vietnam’s coastline are still pristine (defined as having 76 - 100% coral cover). 31% are in “poor condition” (defined as having 0 – 10% coral cover).“Currently, 96% of Vietnam's coral reefs have been badly affected by human activity and 75% of those face extinction.In recent years, fishermen in Danang have used upgraded nets, causing tremendous damage to coastal reefs. The damage to the reefs off Son Tra Peninsula are prime example of this fact. Other coastal cities and provinces, such as Khanh Hoa and Ba Ria-Vung Tau face the problem of illegal exploitation of coral reefs. They have used both simple tools and heavy equipment, such as dredgers, which contribute to destroying rare ecosystems. Each year, Vietnam has lost over 50 tonnes of coral due to such fishing practices.”
Experts offered up solutions to protect the remaining coral reefs including projects to manage and develop the reefs and create programs to raise awareness about their economic benefits. Vietnam has a diverse set of reefs, from north to south: “Among 800 coral types discovered in the world, Vietnam has an estimated 340 types. 205 types of hard coral and 27 types of soft coral were found at Ha Long Bay. In Con Dao Island, 219 types of coral have flourished, providing a habitat for 160 types of coral reef fish.”
According to the World Resource Institute (WRI), Southeast Asia is “considered the global epicenter of marine diversity.” Its coral reefs represent 34% of the world's total and are home to over 600 of the 800 reef-building coral species in the world. Not only are they of vital natural importance, but also economic with the WRI reporting that Southeast Asia’s reefs bring in $2.4 billion annually. Given their significance, hopefully, something will be done soon to better protect them.
According to the World Resource Institute (WRI), Southeast Asia is “considered the global epicenter of marine diversity.” Its coral reefs represent 34% of the world's total and are home to over 600 of the 800 reef-building coral species in the world. Not only are they of vital natural importance, but also economic with the WRI reporting that Southeast Asia’s reefs bring in $2.4 billion annually. Given their significance, hopefully, something will be done soon to better protect them.
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