“Students Plant Mangrove Trees for Geopark”
105 students from grades 5 and 6 at SDN Tegal Caringin Elementary School in Sukabumi Regency participated in a mangrove tree planting activity at Muara Ciletuh Cikadal Beach. The activity was part of the School Goes to Geopark program and done in collaboration with Pokmasi Mandrajaya. The purpose was to educate students about the environment and set an example for other schools. The program also included activities such as an audience with speakers from Pokmasi, a boat ride, and beach cleaning. The students planted 100 mangrove trees.
Small-scale coastal restoration requires upstream land use changes
Removing mangroves does not lead to sediment build-up as anticipated. Small-scale coastal restoration efforts require larger changes in the surrounding area. The study emphasizes holistic management approaches to restore coastal ecosystems. Instead of removing mangroves, efforts should focus on reducing sedimentation from upstream land use practices.
Cyclone Risk and Coastal Ecosystems
Coastal communities face heightened cyclone risk due to declining protective natural ecosystems. Cyclone Idai in 2019 caused significant damage and loss of life. Future storms may be stronger, but the relationship between communities and ecosystems is not fully understood. ETH Zurich researchers found 67 million people are currently at risk, with China having the most. By 2050, the number at risk may increase by 40% to nearly 94 million. Coastal habitats like mangroves and reefs provide protection but are being destroyed, leaving more vulnerable. Preserving existing habitats and restoring lost ones are vital for better cyclone protection. The study highlights key regions for protection and restoration initiatives.
Protecting Mangroves: KPC and KFS Collaboration
KPC and KFS teamed up to plant over 60,000 mangroves in Mombasa. They aim to accelerate tree planting across Kenya for ten years to achieve 30% tree cover by 2032. This week, 61,500 trees were planted in Tudor Creek with the help of five CFAs. KPC has already grown 500,000 trees. The goal is to conserve mangroves to increase fish population in the ocean.
Joint YMCA-Middle School Campus Construction Update
Almost finished vertical construction for St. Petersburg’s joint YMCA and middle school campus. City Council approved replat plans, including new easements and changes to road layout. The complex, designed by Wannemacher Jensen Architects and Harvard Jolly, will serve 600+ students and YMCA members. School will offer electives aligned with YMCA’s focus, and provide before/after-school care and volunteering opportunities. Construction to be completed in Dec, school opens in fall 2024. YMCA paying $21.6M, School Board contributing $26.3M.
‘Cayman Mangroves’ Exhibition
New exhibition at National Gallery of Cayman Islands called ‘Tangled World’ celebrates mangroves with local artists Barwick and McCann. Highlights beauty and importance of mangrove habitats in Cayman. Director Urquhart excited about working with Linda and Babbs.
Mangrove Restoration Training in St. Kitts
Ministry supports IUCN’s 4-day mangrove restoration training at Reggae Beach Pond and Major’s Bay Pond. Focus is sustainable land management in St. Kitts and Nevis. Stakeholders learn about mangrove importance and low-cost restoration techniques. Departments and student establish nurseries for seedlings to restore 20 hectares next year.
