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Global awareness critical to protect world’s mangroves: UN science chief |



Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO Director-General, called for greater global awareness of these important coastal areas in her message to mark International Day for Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystems.

It is estimated that more than three-quarters of the world’s mangroves are now threatened, “And with them all good balances depend on them,” she speak.

Restoration project

Ms. Azoulay announced that next month, UNESCO will launch a new mangrove restoration project in seven Latin American countries: Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico, Panama and Peru.

The project will bring economic opportunity for local communities. It will also facilitate the exchange and sharing of knowledge between local and indigenous populations and the scientific community.

“In addition to protection and recovery, we need global awareness. This requires education and warning to the public, not just in schools, but wherever possible,” she said.

This spirit is embodied in an exhibition that UNESCO designed for the National Science Museum of Thailand, which is now touring the world, “because also by showcasing and explaining the mysteries of the forest.” mangroves that we will be able to preserve them sustainably,” she added.

Beauty and vulnerability

Ms. Azoulay highlighted the goal of the International Day, when people are encouraged to be aware of the value, beauty and vulnerability of mangrove ecosystems, and pledge to protect them.

“From the roots to the tips of the branches, in a complex habitat, many species come to feed and reproduce, together forming one of the most vibrant ecosystems. And we humans depend on these environments to slow down coastal erosion and be a source of food for many,” she said.

The UN head of culture also cites Colombian poet Tomás González, who made mangroves iconic in one of his books.

Miss Azoulay quote from his poetry book Manglaresfrom the Spanish word for “mangrove”, calling for a return to the essential unity of nature:

“Let the trees appear first and then blur and blend with the atmosphere, the landscape behind, the mudflats; let the gannet plunge into the sea immediately sprinkle with salt, sun, glare; / and let the sea first sparkle and then once more merge with the land”.

UNESCO is working to protect the world’s mangroves and other “green carbon ecosystems”, through initiatives such as Geopark, World Heritageand Biosphere Reserves. But Ms. Azoulay warned that the clock was ticking.

“However, in the face of a climate emergency, time is running out and we must go further, because mangroves are also carbon sinks that we can’t afford to lose,” she said.



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