On the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, IUCN has launched a new landmark publication bringing together the most comprehensive assessment of the world's mangrove ecosystems ever undertaken through the IUCN Red List of Ecosystems. The publication synthesises the results of the first-ever global assessment of all mangrove ecosystem types, providing an overview of their conservation status, the pressures they face, and the actions needed to secure their future.

Developed through a collaboration of 232 scientists over the past three years, the assessment evaluated mangrove ecosystems across 34 provinces worldwide and found that 56% are at risk of collapse, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated conservation action. Habitat conversion for agriculture, aquaculture and coastal development remains a major driver of decline, while climate change—including sea-level rise and more intense storms—is becoming an increasingly significant threat.

As countries accelerate efforts to implement the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and climate commitments, the publication provides practical knowledge to help governments, practitioners and partners prioritize conservation investments, inform policy, strengthen restoration efforts and build resilience for both nature and people. 

The publication is available here.

 

Written by: Marcos Valderrabano.

Style and format: Emy Miyazawa