Mangroves for coastal defense: guidelines for coastal managers and policy makers
This guidebook synthesizes current knowledge on the role of mangroves in coastal defence and disaster risk reduction. It shows how mangroves can reduce risks from storms, erosion, flooding, and tsunamis, and provides practical recommendations for coastal managers and policymakers based on site conditions and hazard context.
Subject Tags
- Mangroves
- Nature-based solutions
- Climate resilience
Executive Summary
This practical guidebook brings together current scientific evidence on the role of mangroves in coastal defence and places differing findings and perspectives into context. Developed by The Nature Conservancy, Wetlands International, and the University of Cambridge, it examines how mangroves can reduce risks from natural hazards such as storms, coastal erosion, flooding, and tsunamis, while recognizing that their effectiveness depends on local hazard conditions, exposure, vulnerability, and site characteristics. The guide explains how mangroves reduce wave energy, stabilize sediments, limit erosion, and, in wider belts, lessen storm surge and tsunami impacts. It emphasizes that mangroves are rarely a stand‑alone solution and are most effective when integrated with other coastal risk reduction measures and broader coastal zone management planning. In addition to practical management guidance, the guide highlights the multiple values of mangroves and encourages decision makers to fully account for the long‑term costs of mangrove loss. The publication offers clear, actionable recommendations to help coastal managers and policymakers incorporate mangroves into effective, integrated coastal defence strategies.
Citation
Spalding, M. D., McIvor, A., Tonneijck, F. H., Tol, S., & van Eijk, P. (2019). Mangroves for coastal defense: guidelines for coastal managers and policy makers. Wageningen, The Netherlands, Wetlands International and The Nature Conservancy.
TNC Authors
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Mark Spalding
Senior Marine Scientist • Protect Oceans, Lands and Waters
The Nature Conservancy
Email: mspalding@tnc.org