Coastal Ecosystem Conservation: Protecting Communities at Risk
A new study shows that 68 million people in low-lying coastal areas are at risk from tropical cyclones every year, and ecosystems like mangroves, coral reefs, and wetlands serve as their best defenses. However, the destruction of these coastal ecosystems has led to 1.4 million people annually losing their natural protection. With climate change, this number could increase by 40%, impacting an additional 27 million people annually. Coastal communities are losing nature s protection and it is crucial to prioritize the conservation of these ecosystems to ensure their resilience and growth. The challenge faced by coastal communities is twofold: ecosystems struggling to adapt to climate change and habitat degradation caused by human development. Investing in the health of natural ecosystems can protect people from climate change impacts and lessen its severity. Governments, organizations, communities, and the private sector must act now to prevent the loss of ecosystems and protect millions of people at risk. Conserving existing ecosystems and rebuilding and restoring previously destroyed ones are vital steps for the future. In certain geographies, such as island states like Bermuda, mangrove restoration can significantly increase the percentage of people protected from tropical cyclones.
Destruction of coastal ecosystems endangers millions of people from tropical cyclones. Climate change will increase this risk by 40%, affecting 27 million more annually. It is crucial to prioritize conservation and restoration of these ecosystems to protect communities. Investment and action by governments, organizations, communities, and the private sector are necessary to prevent further loss and mitigate climate change impacts. Mangrove restoration can be especially effective in protecting people in places like Bermuda.
