Are Mangroves Worth Replanting? The Direct Economic Benefits of a Community-Based Reforestation Project

background

This study examines the socioeconomic impacts of a community-led reforestation project in the Philippines through a survey of the local fishers over 10 years after replanting. The wider objective of the study was to obtain greater data on the local economic value of mangroves and present it as a comparison to other land uses such as development and aquaculture.

research goals & methods

The study used questionnaires of local fishers to assess attitudes towards the restored mangroves as well as the economic value of mangrove-based activities. The study intended to capture all economic benefits of the mangrove forest, including fisheries, tourism, and timber.

conclusions & takeaways

The study found that more than 90% of fishers believed the mangrove should be protected for its multiple benefits and were willing to pay for its protection. The benefits stated by fishers included the protection from storm impacts and the function as a nursery site for fisheries. The study assessed that the mangrove provided an annual benefit to the community of around US$315ha-1yr-1 and concludes that the mangroves provide crucial benefits to economically-vulnerable coastal populations.