The world’s mangrove forests are bouncing back. That’s good news for our coasts and climate

Mangroves are perplexing plants that breathe through their roots and grow in hot, salty seawater influenced by tides. Historically, they have been viewed as inhospitable and cleared for agricultural use, but they are now recognized for their biodiversity support, carbon storage (locking up roughly four times more carbon than other forests), and storm buffering. Since 1984, scientists have monitored mangrove growth via satellites, revealing that for the first time, these ecosystems are expanding faster than declining. This expansion is driven by varied regional factors, including stronger protection laws post-disasters like the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and 2008 cyclone Nargis in Myanmar and Indonesia. Australia’s mangroves are expanding due to floodplain growth, though rising sea levels inland may threaten freshwater ecosystems. The study also notes mangroves are shifting inland via new mud flats, possibly due to soil transport from deforested areas, while coastal regions show signs of successful restoration. However, degradation persists due to human activities (harvesting, pollution) and extreme weather. The expansion is promising but not enough; current thinning risks coastal ecosystems and climate efforts. Organizations like the Global Mangrove Alliance and Mangrove Breakthrough advocate for stronger protection and restoration policies.