Sonneratia spp.

Storm Surge Reduction by Mangroves

Background

Flooding and wave energy from storm surges can damage infrastructure and harm inhabitants of coastal communities. Climate change and sea level rise have the potential to increase or intensify storm surges, which necessitate investment in coastal defenses and disaster risk reduction. Mangroves can reduce the effects of storm surges through attenuating waves and wind, making mangroves an important form of nature-based protection for coastal communities.

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Reduction of Wind and Swell Waves by Mangroves

Background

Coastal ecosystems can mitigate the damage from extreme weather events like tropical storms and hurricanes. With human populations increasing in coastal areas, policymakers and stakeholders are interested in coastal ecosystems, like mangrove forests, as a nature-based form of coastal defense and resilience. This report aims to examine the potential for mangroves to reduce wind and swell waves in order to inform decision makers about the potential for mangroves to decrease the risks faced by coastal communities.

Open access copy available
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