The Disappearing Mangroves

Mangrove forests are vanishing at an alarming rate, despite their critical role as carbon sinks and coastal protectors. Blue Ocean News visits communities in Southeast Asia where shrimp farming and development threaten these vital ecosystems.

Local fishermen explain how mangrove loss leaves coastal villages exposed to storm surges and erodes fish nurseries. Conservation groups are buying land and restoring forests, but face pressure from powerful agricultural and tourism interests.

Scientists calculate that preserving mangroves could offset significant carbon emissions, yet they receive a fraction of the attention given to rainforest preservation. This story explores why these "blue forests" matter and what's being done to save them.