Mangrove Restoration Cost-Effectiveness Exceeds Engineered Coastal Defenses 5:1
Menendez P, Losada I, Torres-Ortega S
Summary
9.2/10Mangrove restoration provides 5x more coastal protection per dollar than seawalls, plus $3.20/m/year in fishery and carbon benefits.
Key Findings
5:1 cost advantage over engineered defenses
80% wave attenuation within 7 years
$3.20/m/year co-benefits
Original Abstract
A 10-year analysis of 34 restored mangrove sites across Southeast Asia shows $1 of mangrove restoration provides the equivalent coastal protection of $5 in engineered seawalls. Restored sites achieved 80% of natural mangrove wave attenuation within 7 years. Co-benefits include fishery support and carbon sequestration valued at additional $3.20/m of coastline/year.
Mangrove
A mangrove is a shrub or tree that grows mainly in coastal saline or brackish water. Mangroves grow in an equatorial climate, typically along coastlines and tidal rivers. They have particular adaptations to take in extra oxygen and remove salt, allowing them to tolerate conditions that kill most ...
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