Mangroves are unique ecosystems between land and sea. They support biodiversity, protect coastal communities, enhance food security, and act as natural defenses against storms and erosion. Their soils are also powerful carbon sinks.
Yet mangroves are disappearing three to five times faster than overall global forest losses, with serious ecological and socio-economic impacts. Current estimates indicate that mangrove coverage has been divided by two in the past 40 years.
Established by UNESCO in 2015, this Day raises awareness of mangroves’ importance and promotes their sustainable conservation.