Yesterday was the international day for the conservation of the mangrove ecosystems to commemorate the importance of mangrove ecosystem as a unique, special and vulnerable ecosystem and to promote solutions for their sustainable management, conservation and uses.
It was adopted by the General Conference of UNESCO in 2015 and celebrated each year on July 26.
Onyinye Agubaeze who gave an insight on the importance of the day reports that mangroves are certain shrubs and trees that grow in dense thickets or forests along tides in salt marshes and muddy coasts and characteristically have exposed supporting roots.
The mangrove ecosystem contributes to the wellbeing, food and security of coastal communities worldwide.
In an interview with the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Environment, Dr Emma Okafor cautioned against dumping of hazardous waste in the mangrove system as well as indiscriminate cutting of mangrove tress to conserve the mangrove ecosystems and noted that settlements benefit from the mangrove through fishing, boat building and charcoal production.
Dr Emma also pointed out that mangrove provides beautiful scenery for tourist attraction, recreation and hiking.
Commenting on the day, the Director Environment and Ecology Anambra State Ministry of Environment, Mr. Anthony Odiegwu noted that Anambra State is blessed with mangrove ecosystem which are situated in Enugu Otu, Ayamelum, Agulu, Ihiala as well as others.
Noting the importance of mangrove in balancing the ecosystem, Mr. Anthony explained that most mangrove settlements depends on the mangrove for the production of timber, food and act as a form of natural coastal defense against storm surges, tsunamis, rising sea levels and erosion.
As the world marks the International Day of the Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystem, there is need to conserve, restore and promote the sustainable use of mangrove ecosystem.
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