Women for Conservation is partnering with local women in Sundarbans, India on mangrove forest restoration. Mangrove trees are key species in coastal ecosystems and have high potential for mitigating climate change impacts. They are essential for shoreline resilience against rising sea levels, absorb 4x more CO2 than other trees, and act as habitat for young aquatic organisms. We have lost 22% of global mangrove cover since 1985. Further mangrove loss will devastate coastal habitats.
More than 1000 species and 4.5 million people live in the Sundarbans, which is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO world heritage site, covering 10,000 km2. Millions of people and wildlife depend on this forest for clean water, livelihoods, and food. Yet the Sundarbans are disappearing, threatened by pollution, deforestation, and rising sea levels. This project offers a women-led solution that centers local voices in the fight against biodiversity loss and climate change.
This project is led by a local scientist and empowers local women to use practical knowledge to generate solutions to habitat loss. 5 women will participate in a 3-month project to research and develop solutions to mangrove loss, resulting in habitat restoration, community education, and a shared repository of ecological knowledge. The project places women as decision-makers in conservation, ensuring more effective and equitable solutions compared with traditional top-down conservation projects.
Project will result in lasting, community-led solutions to mangrove loss that will benefit the entire ecosystem. Stronger ecosystems mean cleaner and more resilient environments, especially as we face more disastrous climate effects. Women are empowered to lead, strengthening gender equity and teaching women that they have the power to create change. Women will receive stipends for their work, creating financial independence. Project will also provide education for 50+ community members.
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